JAMB UTME - Use of English - 2023

In this question, identify the word that has the stress on the first syllable.

Bayanin Amsa

reSIST
SALon
conFIRM
inTACT

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

Where did the police apprehend Talle?

Bayanin Amsa

In "The Life Changer" novel, the police apprehended Talle **at the palace of Hakimi**.
The palace of Hakimi is an important location in the story, and it is where Talle was found and taken into custody by the police. This is a significant event in the plot, as it marks a turning point for Talle's character and the overall storyline.

The coach has asked the Bright Rangers to be paid their --6-- salaries and --7-- so as to --8-- them to victory against Mamelody Sundowns of South Africa in saturday's all importanat CAF Champions leaque Match. Bright Rangers are the third in group B with four points --9-- many matches and need to --10-- defaet at second - placed Al - Ahly to stay in the --11-- for a place in the semi - final of Africa's most prestigious club competition. The Coach told MTN Football.com that the team would be better motivated if they atleast receive their August salaries before the Al - Ahly --12--. We have to make sure that they are paid their salaries --13-- so that they could play the game of their lives. The government has done very well, but it will be a big morale --14-- to get paid for them to go out there and play. The Coach informed MTN Football.com that the Bright Rangers plan to employ the counter --15-- to get a result in Cario.

 --7--

Bayanin Amsa

The answer is match bonuses. Match bonuses refer to additional payments that players receive based on their performance or the outcome of a match. In this context, the coach wants the Bright Rangers to be paid their match bonuses before the game against Mamelody Sundowns. The coach believes that receiving their bonuses will motivate the players and help them perform better in the match. It is a form of incentive for the players to give their best and potentially secure a place in the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League.

In this question, choose the option that best completes the gap(s).

The proprietor of our school with his administrator ------------ expected yesterday.

Bayanin Amsa

The correct option to complete the sentence is "was". In this sentence, we are referring to a singular subject "the proprietor of our school" and his administrator. Since "the proprietor" is a singular noun, the correct form of the verb to use is the singular form "was". Therefore, the correct statement is: "The proprietor of our school with his administrator was expected yesterday."

Read the passage carefully and answer this question.

May your road be rough. I am not cursing you: I am wishing you what I wish myself every year, I therefore repeat, may you have a hard time this year. May there be troubles for you this year. If you are not sure of what to say back, why not just say "same to you" – I ask for no more.

Our successes are conditioned by the amount of risk we are about to take. Earlier today, I visited a local farmer about five kilometers from where I live. He could not have been 55, but he said he was already too old to farm vigorously. He still suffered, he said, from the energy he displayed as a farmer in his younger days. Around his hut were two pepperbushes. There were cocoyam growing around him. There were snail shells which had given him meat. There must have been more snails around the banana trees than I saw. He hardly ever went to town to buy things. He was self-sufficient. The car, the television or radio and the newspaper were things he could live without. He had no ambition whatsoever, he told me.

I am not sure if you are already envious of him, but were we all to revert to such a life, we would be driven back like aimless sheep to cave dwelling. On the other hand, try to put yourself in the shoes of the Russian or American astronauts. Any moment you are shot into space, you have to be mentally alert, else, if you forget what to do, one of the things that might happen to you is that you could forever become a satellite going round until you die of starvation, and even then, your dead body would continue the gyration.

Naturally, they may have some slight foreboding on the contingency of their non-return. However, it is their courage for going in spite of these apprehensions that makes the world hail them so loudly today.
(Akinyemi, A., Olupe, F., & Adetutu, S. (2012): Rubrics of English Language for Schools and Colleges. Divine Glory Printers, Abeokuta.)

According to the passage, astronauts

Bayanin Amsa

According to the passage, astronauts know they may not return from their journey into space. They are aware of the risks involved in their space missions and the possibility that they may not come back. Despite this knowledge, they still have the courage and mental stability to go on these missions. Their bravery and willingness to face these risks are what make them highly praised in the world today.

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word in each sentence.
The abeyance of school activities last semester was a reason for concern.

Bayanin Amsa

The underlined word in the sentence is "abeyance", which means a temporary suspension or halt. We are looking for the word that is opposite in meaning to "abeyance".
The opposite of "abeyance" would be "continuance". "Continuance" means the act of continuing or the state of being continued. So, if school activities were in "abeyance", it means they were temporarily suspended or halted. Therefore, the opposite scenario would be if school activities were in "continuance", which means they were continuing without any interruption.
To understand it better, imagine a situation where school activities were temporarily suspended last semester. This suspension created concern among the people. On the other hand, if school activities were in continuance, it means they were carrying on as usual without any breaks or pauses and this would not cause concern.
Therefore, the option opposite in meaning to "abeyance" is continuance.

Choose the option that has the same vowel sound as the letter(s) underlined

exist

Bayanin Amsa

exist - /ɪgzɪst/
helicopter - /helɪkɒptə/
isle - /aɪl/
meant - /ment/
never - /nevə/

In this question, fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

We are all hungry; we ...... anything to eat since morning.

Bayanin Amsa

We are all hungry; we **haven't had** anything to eat since morning.
Explanation: The correct option to fill the gap is "haven't had". This is because the sentence is expressing a present perfect tense, which is used to talk about past actions or experiences that are connected to the present. In this case, the present perfect emphasizes that the hunger from not having anything to eat started in the past and continues until now.
The option "hadn't had" is incorrect because it is in the past perfect tense, which is used to talk about actions that happened before another past action. There is no indication of another past action in the sentence.
The option "never had" is incorrect because it implies an absolute lack of previous experience with eating anything since morning, which may not be the case for the individuals in the sentence.
The option "didn't have" is incorrect because it is in the simple past tense, which suggests a completed action in the past. It does not connect the past action of not having anything to eat to the present moment of being hungry.

Choose the option that has the same stress pattern as the given word.

Student

Bayanin Amsa

Refuse(N) and student are both stressed on the first syllable unlike other options stressed on the second syllable.

Use the passage to answer the questions below
Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:

The victory of the small Greek democracy of Athens over the mighty Persian Empire was furious because Athens had interceded for the other Greek city-states in revolt against Persian domination. In anger, the king sent an enormous army to defeat Athens. He thought it would take drastic steps to pacify the rebellious part of the empire.

Persia was ruled by one man. In Athens, however, all citiens helped to rule. Emboldened by this participation, Athenians were prepared to die for their city-state. Perhaps this was the secret of the remarkable victory at the marathon, the Persians tried to fool some Greek city-states by claiming to have come in peace. The frightened city of Delos refused to believe this. Not wanting to abet the conquest of Greece, they fled from their city and did not return until the Persians had left. They were wise, for the president next conquered the city of Eritrea and captured its people.

Tiny Athens stood alone against Persia. The Athenian people to their sanctuaries. There they prayed for deliverance. They asked their gods to expedite their victory. The Athenians refurbished their weapons and moved to the plan of Marathon where their little band would meet the Persians. At the last moment, soldiers from Plataea reinforced the Athenian troops.

The Athenian army attacked and Greek citizens fought bravely. The power of the mighty Persians was offset by the love that the Athenians had for their city. Athenians defeated the Persians in both archery and combat. Greek soldiers seized Persian sheep and burned them and the Persians fled in terror. Herodotus, a famous historian, reports that 6400 Persians died, compared to only 192 Athenians.

Athens had _________ the Greek-states against Persians.

Bayanin Amsa

Athens had intervened on behalf of the Greek-states against the Persians.

When the Persian Empire launched invasions against the Greek city-states in the 5th century BCE, Athens played a significant role in defending the Greeks. The Athenians, led by their renowned statesman Themistocles, recognized the threat posed by the Persian forces and took action to unite the Greek city-states against this common enemy.

Athens intervened on behalf of the Greek-states by organizing a naval alliance called the Delian League. This league consisted of numerous Greek city-states, with Athens assuming a leading role due to its strong navy and political influence.

With the formation of the Delian League, Athens coordinated military efforts and provided financial, logistical, and strategic support to the allied Greek city-states. They used the resources of the league to build a powerful navy, which played a crucial role in defeating the Persians in key battles such as the Battle of Salamis.

By intervening on behalf of the Greek-states, Athens demonstrated its commitment to defending Greek freedom and autonomy. They recognized the importance of unity in the face of a powerful external threat and took decisive action to protect their shared interests.

Choose the option that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined

casualty

Bayanin Amsa

casualty - /kæʒjuəlti/
juice - /dʒuːs/
sure - /ʃʊə/
amateur - /æmətə/
aesthetic - /iːsθetɪk/

The coach has asked the Bright Rangers to be paid their --6-- salaries and --7-- so as to --8-- them to victory against Mamelody Sundowns of South Africa in saturday's all importanat CAF Champions leaque Match. Bright Rangers are the third in group B with four points --9-- many matches and need to --10-- defaet at second - placed Al - Ahly to stay in the --11-- for a place in the semi - final of Africa's most prestigious club competition. The Coach told MTN Football.com that the team would be better motivated if they atleast receive their August salaries before the Al - Ahly --12--. We have to make sure that they are paid their salaries --13-- so that they could play the game of their lives. The government has done very well, but it will be a big morale --14-- to get paid for them to go out there and play. The Coach informed MTN Football.com that the Bright Rangers plan to employ the counter --15-- to get a result in Cario.

 --11--

Bayanin Amsa

The correct answer is - running.

Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

The conference is biannial.

Bayanin Amsa

Occurring twice a year.

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

According to the novel, which of these characters had a nasty experience on the account of using social media?

Bayanin Amsa

Salim had a nasty experience using social media

Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word(s)
No one would complain if you emulate good behaviour

Bayanin Amsa

The word "emulate" means to imitate or copy someone's behavior or actions. It refers to trying to be like someone or to do things in the same way as they do. So, the option that is nearest in meaning to "emulate" is **imitate**.

Read the passage carefully and answer this question.

May your road be rough. I am not cursing you: I am wishing you what I wish myself every year, I therefore repeat, may you have a hard time this year. May there be troubles for you this year. If you are not sure of what to say back, why not just say "same to you" – I ask for no more.

Our successes are conditioned by the amount of risk we are about to take. Earlier today, I visited a local farmer about five kilometers from where I live. He could not have been 55, but he said he was already too old to farm vigorously. He still suffered, he said, from the energy he displayed as a farmer in his younger days. Around his hut were two pepperbushes. There were cocoyam growing around him. There were snail shells which had given him meat. There must have been more snails around the banana trees than I saw. He hardly ever went to town to buy things. He was self-sufficient. The car, the television or radio and the newspaper were things he could live without. He had no ambition whatsoever, he told me.

I am not sure if you are already envious of him, but were we all to revert to such a life, we would be driven back like aimless sheep to cave dwelling. On the other hand, try to put yourself in the shoes of the Russian or American astronauts. Any moment you are shot into space, you have to be mentally alert, else, if you forget what to do, one of the things that might happen to you is that you could forever become a satellite going round until you die of starvation, and even then, your dead body would continue the gyration.

Naturally, they may have some slight foreboding on the contingency of their non-return. However, it is their courage for going in spite of these apprehensions that makes the world hail them so loudly today.
(Akinyemi, A., Olupe, F., & Adetutu, S. (2012): Rubrics of English Language for Schools and Colleges. Divine Glory Printers, Abeokuta.)

The farmer in the passage ......

Bayanin Amsa

The farmer in the passage is described as someone who used to be self-sufficient. He lives a simple life and does not rely on modern conveniences such as cars, television, or newspapers. He grows his own food, including cocoyam and peppers, and even collects snails for meat. Despite his old age, he still remembers the energy he had as a farmer in his younger days. The passage does not mention anything about the farmer having dreams to expand his farm or being envied more than astronauts. Therefore, the correct answer is : used to be self-sufficient.

The passage below has gaps. Immediately following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most appropriate option for each gap.

PASSAGE IV

With the most profound respect to the members of the Senate, I do not think that it is within the competence of that ...1... body to pass a motion to ...2... the executive action of the President. The Senate is ...3... of the National Assembly. But it is not by itself alone the National Assembly. One can imagine the confusion, which would be created if the ...4... were to take a view diametrically opposed to that reflected in the Senate resolution. The strongest objection to the action of the Senate in passing the resolution is the fact that it constituted itself the ...5... as well as the judge of the constitutionality of the action of the President. The function of the Senate is to ...6... laws. But the Senate has no authority or ...7... to control the President in the exercise of his ...8... powers. It cannot by a mere resolution or motion give any directive to the President regarding the exercise of his powers nor can it undo what the President has done in the exercise of those powers. The only way in which the exercise of the powers of the President can be ...9... is by ...10... of the National Assembly.
Adapted from The Guardian of July 8, 1999, p. 8.

...1...

Bayanin Amsa

The missing word in the first gap is "legislative". The passage is discussing the competence of the Senate, and it states that the members of the Senate do not have the authority or competence to pass a motion to review or challenge the executive action of the President. The word "executive" refers to the branch of government that is responsible for carrying out and enforce laws. Therefore, the appropriate option for the first gap is "executive". In simpler terms, the passage is saying that the Senate does not have the power to challenge or review the actions taken by the President in carrying out and enforcing laws.

In this question, the word in capital letters has the emphatic stress. Choose the option to which the given sentence relates.

EMEKA finished his homework yesterday.

Bayanin Amsa

The sentence "EMEKA finished his homework yesterday" has the emphatic stress on the word "EMEKA."
The question "Who finished his homework yesterday?" is related to the given sentence. This is because the sentence emphasizes that EMEKA completed his homework yesterday. The focus is on identifying who finished the homework. Therefore, the correct option is the first one: "Who finished his homework yesterday?"

From the options lettered A-D, choose the option that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word.

My mother is a shrewd businesswoman.

Bayanin Amsa

The underlined word "shrewd" in the sentence means that the mother is very clever, astute, and able to make smart business decisions. The word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to "shrewd" is "gullible." Gullible means easily deceived or easily tricked, while shrewd means clever and sharp-minded. So, if someone is gullible, they are more likely to be easily fooled or tricked in business or any other situation. Therefore, "gullible" is the most opposite in meaning to "shrewd."

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

Dr. Samuel Johnson is also known as_____

Bayanin Amsa

Dr. Samuel Johnson is also known as "Samjohn". This name is derived from the combination of his first name (Samuel) and last name (Johnson). It is a commonly used shortened version or nickname for him. Therefore, the correct answer is "Samjohn".

The primary stress is indicated by writing the syllable on which it occurs in capital letters. From the words lettered A to D choose the one that has the correct stress.
category

Bayanin Amsa

The correct stress in the word "category" is "CAT-e-go-ry". The primary stress falls on the second syllable, which is "CAT".
In English, stress refers to the emphasis or prominence given to a syllable or word in speech. It involves making that particular syllable louder, longer, and higher in pitch compared to the surrounding syllables.
In the word "category", the stress is placed on the second syllable "CAT". This means that when pronouncing the word, we put more emphasis on the "CAT" syllable, making it louder, longer, and higher in pitch. The other syllables, "e-go-ry", are pronounced with a lower level of prominence.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B: "CAT-e-go-ry", where the capital letters indicate the syllable with the primary stress.

The passage below has gaps. Immediately following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most appropriate option for each gap.

PASSAGE IV

With the most profound respect to the members of the Senate, I do not think that it is within the competence of that ...1... body to pass a motion to ...2... the executive action of the President. The Senate is ...3... of the National Assembly. But it is not by itself alone the National Assembly. One can imagine the confusion, which would be created if the ...4... were to take a view diametrically opposed to that reflected in the Senate resolution. The strongest objection to the action of the Senate in passing the resolution is the fact that it constituted itself the ...5... as well as the judge of the constitutionality of the action of the President. The function of the Senate is to ...6... laws. But the Senate has no authority or ...7... to control the President in the exercise of his ...8... powers. It cannot by a mere resolution or motion give any directive to the President regarding the exercise of his powers nor can it undo what the President has done in the exercise of those powers. The only way in which the exercise of the powers of the President can be ...9... is by ...10... of the National Assembly.
Adapted from The Guardian of July 8, 1999, p. 8.

...6...

Bayanin Amsa

The word that best fits in the gap is "enact".
The passage states that the function of the Senate is to **enact** laws. This means that the Senate's role is to create or establish laws. They have the power to propose, debate, and pass laws. Therefore, the Senate's main responsibility is to enact laws, not to pass motions or resolutions to control the executive actions of the President.

Use the passage to answer the questions below
Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:

The victory of the small Greek democracy of Athens over the mighty Persian Empire was furious because Athens had interceded for the other Greek city-states in revolt against Persian domination. In anger, the king sent an enormous army to defeat Athens. He thought it would take drastic steps to pacify the rebellious part of the empire.

Persia was ruled by one man. In Athens, however, all citiens helped to rule. Emboldened by this participation, Athenians were prepared to die for their city-state. Perhaps this was the secret of the remarkable victory at the marathon, the Persians tried to fool some Greek city-states by claiming to have come in peace. The frightened city of Delos refused to believe this. Not wanting to abet the conquest of Greece, they fled from their city and did not return until the Persians had left. They were wise, for the president next conquered the city of Eritrea and captured its people.

Tiny Athens stood alone against Persia. The Athenian people to their sanctuaries. There they prayed for deliverance. They asked their gods to expedite their victory. The Athenians refurbished their weapons and moved to the plan of Marathon where their little band would meet the Persians. At the last moment, soldiers from Plataea reinforced the Athenian troops.

The Athenian army attacked and Greek citizens fought bravely. The power of the mighty Persians was offset by the love that the Athenians had for their city. Athenians defeated the Persians in both archery and combat. Greek soldiers seized Persian sheep and burned them and the Persians fled in terror. Herodotus, a famous historian, reports that 6400 Persians died, compared to only 192 Athenians.

The people of Delos did not want to __________ the conquest of Greece

Bayanin Amsa

The people of Delos did not want to ENCOURAGE the conquest of Greece.
Explanation: The word "encourage" means to support, promote, or inspire something. In this case, the people of Delos did not want to support or promote the conquest of Greece. They did not want to encourage the idea of Greece being conquered by someone or some force.

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.
We had to ..... the group headed by Taiwo.

Bayanin Amsa

"sell up" means to sell all the goods of a debtor to clear the debt, sell off means to clear out (stock) at bargaining prices sell out means to betray for money or reward.

Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme.
laugh

Bayanin Amsa

The word that has the same rhyme scheme as "laugh" is "half". To understand this, we need to first understand what a rhyme scheme is. In poetry, a rhyme scheme is the pattern of rhyming lines at the end of each verse. It helps create a rhythmic and musical quality to the poem. In the case of "laugh", the sound at the end of the word is represented by the letters "augh". Let's now look at the other words to see if any of them have the same rhyme scheme as "laugh": - "Life" ends with the sound "ife", so it does not have the same rhyme scheme as "laugh". - "Ghost" ends with the sound "ost", so it does not have the same rhyme scheme as "laugh". - "Light" ends with the sound "ight", so it does not have the same rhyme scheme as "laugh". Only the word "half" ends with the same sound as "laugh", which is "augh". Therefore, "half" has the same rhyme scheme as "laugh". In summary, out of the given options, "half" is the word that has the same rhyme scheme as "laugh" because both words end with the sound "augh".

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

Salma was looking more stunning on the last day of her exams because_______

Bayanin Amsa

Salma was looking more stunning on the last day of her exams because her classmates had organized a mini picnic to wrap up the good work. This means that her classmates had arranged a small gathering or celebration to mark the end of their exams.
By organizing a mini picnic, Salma's classmates showed their appreciation for the effort they had put into their exams and wanted to have a fun and relaxed time together. During this picnic, they could have enjoyed delicious food, played games, and shared stories and laughter with each other.
This festive and enjoyable atmosphere created by her classmates' thoughtful gesture likely put Salma in a positive and joyful mood, which could explain why she looked so stunning on the last day of her exams. When we are happy and surrounded by friends, our natural beauty tends to shine through.

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

_____ was always on the first row during prayer at his office.

Bayanin Amsa

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

why did Omar say he passed his SSCE by no means a small feat?

Bayanin Amsa

Omar said he passed his SSCE by no means a small feat because he passed excellently on his first attempt. This means that he was able to achieve a high level of success in his SSCE examination without having to retake the exam or face any significant challenges. Passing the SSCE on the first attempt is considered impressive because it showcases a strong academic performance and a solid understanding of the subjects taken. It demonstrates that Omar was well-prepared and dedicated to his studies, which is why he regarded his achievement as a significant accomplishment.

Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word(s)
After thousands of years of existing, elephants still remain extant.

Bayanin Amsa

The word "extant" in this context means that elephants still continue to exist after thousands of years. It implies that they have not become extinct or disappeared. Therefore, the option that is nearest in meaning to "extant" is "enduring". This is because enduring means to continue to exist or last for a long time without significant damage or change. Elephants have endured and continue to exist for thousands of years.

Choose the word that has the same CONSONANT SOUND as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined.
marks

Bayanin Amsa

The word that has the same consonant sound as "marks" is "axe". The underlined consonant sound in "marks" is /ks/. The word "axe" also has the /ks/ consonant sound. In "exhaust", the underlined consonant sound is /gz/. This is different from the /ks/ sound in "marks". In "mosque", the underlined consonant sound is /sk/. This is also different from the /ks/ sound in "marks". In "exist", the underlined consonant sound is /gz/. This is different from the /ks/ sound in "marks". Therefore, the word "axe" is the only option that has the same consonant sound as the one represented by the underlined letter(s) in "marks".

In this question, select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

If he were here, it could be more fun.

Bayanin Amsa

The correct answer is 'He did not show up and so the occasion lacked much fun'. The sentence 'If he were here, it could be more fun' is a hypothetical condition that implies that the person being referred to is not present, and his presence could have made the situation more enjoyable. The other options do not fully capture the essence of the sentence.

Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

The stadium had a capacity crowd in spite of the weather.

Bayanin Amsa

The sentence is saying that the stadium had a full crowd despite the bad weather. This means that even though the weather was not good, many people still came to the stadium. The best option that explains this is: The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium.

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

Salma stayed at the most coveted and famous ______ hostel.

Bayanin Amsa

Salma stayed at the most coveted and famous Queen Amina hostel. Queen Amina is the correct answer because in "The Life Changer" novel, the Queen Amina hostel is described as the most coveted and famous hostel. This means that it is highly sought after and well-known among students. Queen Amina was a powerful and influential queen who ruled over the city-state of Zazzau, which is present-day Nigeria. She was known for her bravery, military skills, and leadership qualities. The hostel named after Queen Amina is likely to symbolize strength, courage, and excellence – traits that students staying there might aspire to possess. It is important to note that the other options mentioned, Queen Moremi, Queen Lateefat, and Queen Haneefa, are not described in the novel as being as coveted and famous as Queen Amina. Therefore, the correct answer is Queen Amina.

Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

Only two ministers survived the recent cabinet reshuffle.

Bayanin Amsa

The sentence means that out of all the ministers in the government, only two of them were able to keep their positions after the recent cabinet reshuffle. This implies that the rest of the ministers either lost their positions, were removed from their posts, or were replaced by others.
Therefore, the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence is: **In recent changes in government, all but two ministers were sacked.** This option accurately reflects that the majority of the ministers were removed from their positions during the cabinet reshuffle.

The words in capital letter have the emphatic stress. Choose the options to which the given sentences relate.
I bought my WIFE a red dress

Bayanin Amsa

The given sentence is "I bought my WIFE a red dress?".
The emphatic stress is on the word "WIFE", which means that it is being emphasized or given importance in the sentence.
From the options provided, the correct answer would be: "Did I buy my husband a red dress?".
This is because the given sentence indicates that the speaker, who is referring to themselves as "I", bought something for their wife. Therefore, the opposite option that refers to the husband instead of the wife would be the correct answer.
The other options can be ruled out because they either mention a different item (red shoe) or a different person (he) than what is mentioned in the original sentence.
In conclusion, the correct option is "Did I buy my husband a red dress?".

Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word
I was skeptical about the story she told me.

Bayanin Amsa

The word "skeptical" means having doubts or being unsure about something. In the given sentence, the person is unsure or doubtful about the story they were told. So, the option that is nearest in meaning to "skeptical" is "doubtful."

The coach has asked the Bright Rangers to be paid their --6-- salaries and --7-- so as to --8-- them to victory against Mamelody Sundowns of South Africa in saturday's all importanat CAF Champions leaque Match. Bright Rangers are the third in group B with four points --9-- many matches and need to --10-- defaet at second - placed Al - Ahly to stay in the --11-- for a place in the semi - final of Africa's most prestigious club competition. The Coach told MTN Football.com that the team would be better motivated if they atleast receive their August salaries before the Al - Ahly --12--. We have to make sure that they are paid their salaries --13-- so that they could play the game of their lives. The government has done very well, but it will be a big morale --14-- to get paid for them to go out there and play. The Coach informed MTN Football.com that the Bright Rangers plan to employ the counter --15-- to get a result in Cario.

 --8--

Bayanin Amsa

The word that fits in the blank is "spur".
The coach wants the Bright Rangers to be paid their salaries and spur them to victory against Mamelody Sundowns.
To "spur" means to stimulate or encourage someone or something to take action or to do something. In this context, the coach wants the players to be motivated and inspired to perform at their best in the upcoming match. By receiving their salaries before the game, it is believed that the players will have a higher level of motivation and determination to succeed.
Paying the players their salaries acts as a form of motivation and encouragement for them to give their best effort on the field. It helps to boost their morale and gives them an extra push to perform well in the game. When players are well-compensated and financially satisfied, they are more likely to be focused and driven to achieve success. Therefore, paying the salaries can be seen as a way to spur the players on and increase their chances of victory.

The passage below has gaps. Immediately following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most appropriate option for each gap.

PASSAGE IV

With the most profound respect to the members of the Senate, I do not think that it is within the competence of that ...1... body to pass a motion to ...2... the executive action of the President. The Senate is ...3... of the National Assembly. But it is not by itself alone the National Assembly. One can imagine the confusion, which would be created if the ...4... were to take a view diametrically opposed to that reflected in the Senate resolution. The strongest objection to the action of the Senate in passing the resolution is the fact that it constituted itself the ...5... as well as the judge of the constitutionality of the action of the President. The function of the Senate is to ...6... laws. But the Senate has no authority or ...7... to control the President in the exercise of his ...8... powers. It cannot by a mere resolution or motion give any directive to the President regarding the exercise of his powers nor can it undo what the President has done in the exercise of those powers. The only way in which the exercise of the powers of the President can be ...9... is by ...10... of the National Assembly.
Adapted from The Guardian of July 8, 1999, p. 8.

...4...

Bayanin Amsa

The correct option for gap 4 is "House of Representatives". In the passage, it is mentioned that the Senate is a part of the National Assembly, but it is not the National Assembly itself. The National Assembly is the legislative body of the country, responsible for making laws. If the House of Representatives were to take a view diametrically opposed to that reflected in the Senate resolution, it would create confusion. Therefore, the House of Representatives is the most appropriate option for gap 4.

Choose the word or group of words that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined words
The gradual process of transition to civilian rule came to an _____ end.

Bayanin Amsa

The word "gradual" means something that happens slowly or over a period of time. So, the phrase "gradual end" suggests that the process of transition to civilian rule came to a slow or gradual conclusion.
To find the word or group of words that is most nearly opposite in meaning, we need to look for an option that means a sudden or unexpected end.
The answer is "abrupt". The word "abrupt" means something that happens suddenly or unexpectedly. So, the phrase "abrupt end" suggests that the process of transition to civilian rule came to a sudden or unexpected conclusion.
Therefore, the word "abrupt" is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word "gradual" in the given sentence.

From the words lettered A to D below, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the passage.

Bisi has become an indispensable member of staff

Bayanin Amsa

The word "indispensable" in the passage means someone who is essential or necessary. Out of the options provided, the word that is nearest in meaning to "indispensable" is **vital**.

Choose the word that has the same CONSONANT SOUND as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined.
wash

Bayanin Amsa

wash - /ʃ/

treasure - /ʒ/

occasion - /ʒ/

nation - /ʃ/

equation - /ʒ/

In each of the following sentences, there is one underlined word. From the list of words lettered A to D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word.
The test shows that the lumps are malignant.

Bayanin Amsa

The underlined word in the sentence is "malignant". The word "malignant" describes something that is harmful or cancerous. To find the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning, we need to choose a word that describes something that is not harmful or cancerous. From the given options: - "numerous" means a large number of something, and it is not necessarily related to being harmful or cancerous. This is not the opposite meaning of "malignant". - "cancerous" is a word that describes something related to cancer, which is similar in meaning to "malignant". This is not the opposite meaning of "malignant". - "dominant" means having power, control, or influence over others. It is not directly related to being harmful or cancerous. This is not the opposite meaning of "malignant". - "benign" is the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to "malignant". "Benign" describes something that is not harmful or cancerous. Therefore, the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to "malignant" is "benign".

In the following question, choose the option that best completes the sentence.
The guest would have arrived earlier but he was _______ in traffic.

Bayanin Amsa

The best option that completes the sentence is "held up". When we say someone is "held up", it means that they are delayed or prevented from progressing or arriving at a certain place. In this context, the guest would have arrived earlier but their progress was delayed because of traffic.
To further explain, imagine a situation where the guest was driving to their destination but encountered heavy traffic along the way. This traffic caused a delay and prevented the guest from reaching their destination on time. Therefore, the correct option is "held up".
The other options can be eliminated because they do not convey the same meaning as "held up". "Held down" means to restrain or keep someone or something in a lower position, which does not fit the context of someone being delayed in traffic. "Held about" does not have a commonly understood meaning in this context. "Held off" means to postpone or delay something, but it does not specifically refer to a person being delayed in traffic. Therefore, "held up" is the most appropriate option for completing the sentence.
It is important to analyze the word choices in the options and understand their meanings in order to determine the correct answer.

The coach has asked the Bright Rangers to be paid their --6-- salaries and --7-- so as to --8-- them to victory against Mamelody Sundowns of South Africa in saturday's all importanat CAF Champions leaque Match. Bright Rangers are the third in group B with four points --9-- many matches and need to --10-- defaet at second - placed Al - Ahly to stay in the --11-- for a place in the semi - final of Africa's most prestigious club competition. The Coach told MTN Football.com that the team would be better motivated if they atleast receive their August salaries before the Al - Ahly --12--. We have to make sure that they are paid their salaries --13-- so that they could play the game of their lives. The government has done very well, but it will be a big morale --14-- to get paid for them to go out there and play. The Coach informed MTN Football.com that the Bright Rangers plan to employ the counter --15-- to get a result in Cario.

 --10--

Bayanin Amsa

The correct answer is - avoid.

Choose the word that does not have the same vowel sound as the others

Bayanin Amsa

The word "short" does not have the same vowel sound as the other three words: "shun", "son", and "sun". The vowel sound in "shun", "son", and "sun" is the "uh" sound, also known as the schwa sound. It is a central vowel sound that is pronounced as a weak and unstressed "uh" sound, similar to the first sound in the word "about". On the other hand, the word "short" has a different vowel sound. It has the "aw" sound, which is pronounced as a low back vowel sound, similar to the sound in the word "law". So, the word "short" is different from the other three words because it has a different vowel sound. The vowel sound in "short" is "aw", while the vowel sound in "shun", "son", and "sun" is "uh".

The prisoner finally ........ that he drank to ........ on the night he committed the murder

Bayanin Amsa

The correct answer to the question is: "The prisoner finally conceded that he drank to excess on the night he committed the murder."
In this context, "conceded" means that the prisoner finally admitted or accepted the truth. "Drank to excess" means that the prisoner consumed a larger amount of alcohol than what is considered normal or healthy.
So, the prisoner admitted that he drank too much on the night he committed the murder.

The dictionary gives a classification of words according to their usage. A word not found in the current ...1... of the dictionary has not been given a respectable place in the English Language. A look at an old edition of the dictionary of English will show that the word go slow means a slow way of protesting against an employer by working as slowly as possible- something comparable to work to rule; but a cursory glance at a/an ...2... edition will show an addition to the above meaning listed as West African English, traffic jam which now gives credence to the Nigerian meaning which we ...3... to the word.

Notes on particular points of English usage are included and each note follows the ...4... of the main word that it treats. Usually, a collocation of such words are given as well as a cross-reference so that one can easily trace their synonyms or ...5... or antonyms and when there is a difference between English and American usage, the dictionary notes that difference and gives illustration or example to explain them. As a result of this, words can be marked as either ...6... (words used mainly for conversation rather than written or formal speech), ...7...(very informal language that includes new and sometimes rude words especially words used by a particular group of people such as school children, criminals or those who take drugs), ....8... (technical words that are used mainly by people who belong to the same professional group and are difficult to understand by others who are not members of that profession) or ....9... (old words and or expressions which are no longer in current use and are not acceptable grammatical forms). According to Donald Davidson (1967), besides these common distinctions of word usage, the dictionary also makes other distinctions by marking words that belong to the special vocabularies of sciences and professions and notes such special varieties of ...10... as historical, poetic, literary, scientific etc.
(Akinyemi, A., Olupe, F., & Adetutu, S. (2012): Rubrics of English Language for Schools and Colleges. Divine Glory Printers, Abeokuta.)

Choose the word that best suits.....9...

Bayanin Amsa

The word that best suits the definition of "9" is **archaic**. Archaic words or expressions are old words that are no longer in current use and are not acceptable grammatical forms. In the context of the passage, it refers to words that were used in the past but are no longer commonly used or understood. These words are considered outdated and are not part of modern language.

Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word(s)
When night fell, we had to hasten to the motor park.

Bayanin Amsa

When the word "hasten" is used in this context, it means that the speaker had to hurry to the motor park when night fell. "Hasten" refers to the act of moving quickly or rushing in order to reach a destination or complete a task.
Therefore, the option that is nearest in meaning to "hasten" is "hurry". "Hurry" also means to do something quickly or rapidly.

Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word
The boss is quite inflexible once he has made up his mind.

Bayanin Amsa

The word "inflexible" means that someone is unwilling to change their opinion or decision. In this case, it is referring to the boss being unyielding or not willing to compromise once he has made up his mind. Therefore, the nearest option in meaning to "inflexible" is "unyielding."

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

What were Ummi's children waiting for when Bint narrates her encounter with Mr. Salihu?

Bayanin Amsa

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

Whose reticent nature while growing up earned him the title: "The quiet one".?

Bayanin Amsa

Talle was regarded as the quiet one while growing

In this question, fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

Without our relentless campaigns, we might ...... sure of victory in the race for the National Assembly.

Bayanin Amsa

Without our relentless campaigns, we might **never have been** sure of victory in the race for the National Assembly. This option is the most appropriate because it correctly conveys the meaning that, if not for our relentless campaigns, we would not have achieved or experienced a state of being sure of victory in the race for the National Assembly. The combination of "never" and "have been" in the option suggests that this is a past unrealized possibility that would not have occurred if certain actions (the relentless campaigns) were not undertaken.

From the words lettered A to D below, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the passage.

Mr. Brown is often described as an astute businessman

Bayanin Amsa

In this context, the underlined word "astute" means having good judgment and being clever in business matters. The word that is nearest in meaning to "astute" is "shrewd". A shrewd businessman is someone who is intelligent, perceptive, and can make wise decisions.

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word in each sentence.
During the maths test, some students got an approximate score of 20.

Bayanin Amsa

In the given sentence, the word "approximate" means an estimation or rough calculation. To find the option that is opposite in meaning, we need to look for a word that refers to an exact or accurate score.
Among the given options, the word that is opposite in meaning to "approximate" is "a precise" score. A precise score means an accurate and exact measurement.
Option opposite in meaning: a precise

This question is based on "The Life Changer" novel.

Who called the attention of the district head when it was discovered that Talle buys more than he could consume from the supermarket?

Bayanin Amsa

Choose the option that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter[s] underlined.

naked

Bayanin Amsa

The 'e' in the word 'naked' is pronounced as  /ɪ/ - /ˈneɪkɪd/. Therefore the word with the same vowel sound is 'bid'.

Choose the interpretation that you consider most appropriate for each sentence.

What I told you is the gospel truth. This means that the information is

Bayanin Amsa

The phrase "gospel truth" is often used to emphasize that the information being conveyed is completely true and reliable. It implies that there is no doubt or room for error in the information being shared. Therefore, the most appropriate interpretation for the sentence "What I told you is the gospel truth" is that the information is completely true.

The coach has asked the Bright Rangers to be paid their --6-- salaries and --7-- so as to --8-- them to victory against Mamelody Sundowns of South Africa in saturday's all importanat CAF Champions leaque Match. Bright Rangers are the third in group B with four points --9-- many matches and need to --10-- defaet at second - placed Al - Ahly to stay in the --11-- for a place in the semi - final of Africa's most prestigious club competition. The Coach told MTN Football.com that the team would be better motivated if they atleast receive their August salaries before the Al - Ahly --12--. We have to make sure that they are paid their salaries --13-- so that they could play the game of their lives. The government has done very well, but it will be a big morale --14-- to get paid for them to go out there and play. The Coach informed MTN Football.com that the Bright Rangers plan to employ the counter --15-- to get a result in Cario.

--6--

Bayanin Amsa

The term used in the given text is "salaries". Now, looking at the context, it seems the coach is requesting for the players' salaries to be paid before their upcoming match against Mamelody Sundowns.
Given the options, the term that best fits the context is "outstanding". This means that the players' salaries are due and have not been paid yet. By using the term "outstanding", the coach is emphasizing that the salaries need to be paid in order to motivate the players and improve their performance in the important match.

In this question, select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

Though he is our elected representative, he often takes a rather jaundiced view of our problems.

Bayanin Amsa

The sentence states that "Though he is our elected representative, he often takes a rather jaundiced view of our problems." To understand the meaning of this sentence, we need to understand the meaning of the phrase "jaundiced view." The term "jaundiced" is often used metaphorically to describe a negative or biased perspective. It implies that the person sees things in a negative light or has a pessimistic attitude. Therefore, the best option that explains the information conveyed in the sentence is: **He takes an unfavourable position concerning our problems**. This option accurately captures the meaning that the person's perspective is negative or unfavorable towards the problems.

Read the passage carefully and answer this question.

May your road be rough. I am not cursing you: I am wishing you what I wish myself every year, I therefore repeat, may you have a hard time this year. May there be troubles for you this year. If you are not sure of what to say back, why not just say "same to you" – I ask for no more.

Our successes are conditioned by the amount of risk we are about to take. Earlier today, I visited a local farmer about five kilometers from where I live. He could not have been 55, but he said he was already too old to farm vigorously. He still suffered, he said, from the energy he displayed as a farmer in his younger days. Around his hut were two pepperbushes. There were cocoyam growing around him. There were snail shells which had given him meat. There must have been more snails around the banana trees than I saw. He hardly ever went to town to buy things. He was self-sufficient. The car, the television or radio and the newspaper were things he could live without. He had no ambition whatsoever, he told me.

I am not sure if you are already envious of him, but were we all to revert to such a life, we would be driven back like aimless sheep to cave dwelling. On the other hand, try to put yourself in the shoes of the Russian or American astronauts. Any moment you are shot into space, you have to be mentally alert, else, if you forget what to do, one of the things that might happen to you is that you could forever become a satellite going round until you die of starvation, and even then, your dead body would continue the gyration.

Naturally, they may have some slight foreboding on the contingency of their non-return. However, it is their courage for going in spite of these apprehensions that makes the world hail them so loudly today.
(Akinyemi, A., Olupe, F., & Adetutu, S. (2012): Rubrics of English Language for Schools and Colleges. Divine Glory Printers, Abeokuta.)

According to the passage, success depends on ......

Bayanin Amsa

According to the passage, success depends on **risks**. The passage states that "Our successes are conditioned by the amount of risk we are about to take." This means that in order to achieve success, we need to be willing to take risks. Taking risks involves stepping out of our comfort zones, facing uncertainties, and being open to new opportunities. It requires us to be brave and willing to face challenges and obstacles along the way. By taking risks, we increase our chances of achieving our goals and experiencing growth and success in our lives.