For this question, choose the option nearest in meaning to the word or phrase in italics. The scientist made an astonishing discovery in the laboratory.
Assessment:JAMB UTME - Use of English - 2025Subject:English Language
For this question, choose the option nearest in meaning to the word or phrase in italics.
The scientist made an astonishing discovery in the laboratory.
Answer Details
Astonishing means extremely surprising or impressive; causing great wonder. When something astonishes you, it takes you by surprise in a remarkable way.
The word nearest in meaning is amazing, which means causing great surprise or wonder. Both astonishing and amazing describe something that produces a strong reaction of surprise and admiration. "The scientist made an amazing discovery" carries the same meaning as the original sentence.
The other options express the opposite idea:
common means occurring frequently or being ordinary - something common would not cause astonishment.
expected means anticipated or predicted - something expected is by definition not surprising.
ordinary means with no special or distinctive features - the opposite of remarkable or astonishing.