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Lexis and Vocabulary

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Question 721Question →

Complete the sentence below by filling in the blank with the appropriate word to form the correct fixed collocation.

Fill in the blanks below

During the parliamentary debate, several opposition members were quick to exception to the minister's controversial remarks.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct word to complete the phrase is 'take'.
The verb 'take' correctly combines with 'exception to' to form the standard fixed expression 'take exception to', which means to object strongly or express disapproval.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the target fixed phrase in the context of the sentence.
The sentence requires a verb that pairs specifically with the noun phrase 'exception to' to express objection or disagreement.
In formal English, the established fixed expression meaning 'to object to' or 'to take offense at' is 'take exception to'.
2
Verify grammatical agreement and collocational naturalness.
The base form 'take' follows the infinitive marker 'to'.
Collocations rely on specific lexical pairings; substituting other verbs creates an ungrammatical or unnatural expression.

Key Concept

Collocations and Fixed Phrases
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 722Question →

Match each phrasal verb on the left with its precise contextual meaning on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Paper over
Egg on
Saddle with
Claw back

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

'Paper over' pairs with 'Conceal superficial flaws or differences without resolving the root problem'; 'Egg on' pairs with 'Incite or encourage someone to commit a reckless or unwise action'; 'Saddle with' pairs with 'Burden a person or organization with an unwanted obligation or heavy task'; 'Claw back' pairs with 'Reclaim or retrieve funds, assets, or benefits previously granted'.
Each phrasal verb correctly corresponds to its standard idiomatic meaning: 'Paper over' denotes concealing underlying flaws superficially; 'Egg on' means inciting someone to act foolishly; 'Saddle with' signifies imposing an unwanted burden or debt; and 'Claw back' denotes retrieving previously distributed funds or privileges.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the contextual meaning of 'Paper over'
'Paper over' refers to applying a superficial fix or disguise over serious flaws or disagreements, matching the definition of concealing superficial flaws without resolving the root problem.
Understanding the figurative origin (pasting wallpaper over cracks) clarifies its semantic focus on superficial concealment.
2
Determine the contextual meaning of 'Egg on'
'Egg on' functions as an idiomatic phrasal verb meaning to urge someone into risky behavior, matching the definition of inciting or encouraging a reckless action.
Distinguishing 'egg on' from neutral encouragement highlights its specific implication of provoking foolish or unwise acts.
3
Determine the contextual meaning of 'Saddle with'
'Saddle with' means placing a heavy responsibility on someone, matching the definition of burdening a person or organization with an unwanted obligation.
Recognizing the metaphor of mounting a heavy pack on an animal clarifies its meaning of imposing undesirable duties.
4
Determine the contextual meaning of 'Claw back'
'Claw back' refers to retrieving or reclaiming money or benefits previously distributed, matching the definition of retrieving previously granted funds or assets.
Identifying the formal economic and regulatory context of 'claw back' ensures correct alignment with asset retrieval.

Key Concept

Phrasal Verbs and Prepositional Verbs
Question 723Question →

Read the statement below carefully:

'When questioned about the sudden collapse of the regional healthcare initiative, the ministry official remarked that the project had merely undergone a minor operational realignment before being quietly terminated.'

Which figure of speech is illustrated by the phrase 'a minor operational realignment', and what is its intended communicative function?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Euphemism, used to obscure and soften the unpleasant reality of a complete project failure.

Answer

Euphemism, used to obscure and soften the unpleasant reality of a complete project failure.
The phrase 'a minor operational realignment' is a classic example of euphemism. It replaces a unpleasant, harsh, or damaging reality (the complete collapse and failure of a healthcare initiative) with an indirect, mild, and bureaucratic expression designed to minimize embarrassment and soften public reaction.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the underlined/target expression in the sentence.
The context describes a 'sudden collapse' and quiet termination of a major healthcare initiative, which represents a public policy failure.
Understanding the surrounding context reveals the true severity of the event being described.
2
Examine the phrase 'a minor operational realignment' against the contextual reality.
The official uses polite, mild, and sanitized phrasing ('minor operational realignment') to replace a blunt, damaging fact ('sudden collapse' and failure).
Identifying the replacement of an unpleasant truth with an agreeable or harmless term isolates the figure of speech.
3
Classify the figure of speech and determine its function.
The substitution of a mild term for a harsh reality defines euphemism, intended here to downplay administrative failure and lessen public criticism.
Differentiating euphemism from hyperbole, metaphor, and synecdoche ensures accurate literary identification.

Key Concept

Euphemism and Contextual Connotation
Estimated Time:2m 0s
Question 724Question →

Read the sentence below carefully. Which word nearest in meaning to 'short-lived' correctly completes the contextual blank?

Fill in the blanks below

The financial windfall from the speculative investment proved to be , disappearing completely within a matter of weeks.
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Answer

ephemeral (or transient / fleeting / temporary)
The sentence specifies that the windfall disappeared within weeks, requiring a term denoting a brief or temporary duration. 'Ephemeral', 'transient', 'fleeting', or 'temporary' all correctly express the concept of being short-lived in this context.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The clause 'disappearing completely within a matter of weeks' defines the target property of the financial windfall as brief and brief-lived.
Context clues explicitly indicate that the phenomenon did not last long.
2
Identify the word nearest in meaning to 'short-lived'
'Ephemeral' (or 'transient'/'fleeting') means lasting for a very short time.
This word directly matches the contextual requirement of brief duration.

Key Concept

Synonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 725Question →

During the annual budgetary review, the committee chairman emphasized that infrastructural development must _______ precedence over non-essential capital expenditure. Which word correctly completes the fixed expression?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: take

Answer

The word 'take' correctly completes the fixed expression 'take precedence over'.
The verb 'take' forms the fixed phrase 'take precedence over', which means to take priority or precedence over another item or concern.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context and prepositional frame in the sentence.
The sentence requires a verb that collocates with the noun phrase 'precedence' followed by the preposition 'over'.
Fixed phrases and collocations in English require specific verb-preposition pairings to convey priority.
2
Evaluate the option verbs for idiomatic accuracy.
'Take' is the standard verb that pairs with 'precedence over' to express higher priority.
'Take precedence over' is the accepted idiomatic expression, whereas 'give' requires 'to' ('give precedence to') and 'make' or 'hold' do not collocate with 'precedence over'.

Key Concept

Fixed Verb-Noun-Preposition Collocations
Question 726Question →

When unexpected operational expenses threatened to derail the community infrastructure project, the committee had no option but to ________ their emergency reserve funds. Which of the following phrasal verbs best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: fall back on

Answer

fall back on
The expression 'fall back on' correctly completes the sentence because it means to resort to or draw upon a reserve of money or support when faced with difficulty.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context and required meaning
The context describes an organization facing unforeseen expenses and needing to use backup funds to sustain a project.
Determining the scenario establishes that the required verb must express resorting to or relying upon a reserve.
2
Evaluate the options against standard English phrasal verb definitions
'Fall back on' is the established phrasal verb meaning to turn to a reserve source for help or financial backing when primary means fail.
Matching the target meaning with the precise verb-particle combination ensures idiomatic accuracy.

Key Concept

Phrasal Verbs and Prepositional Verbs
Question 727Question →

During the bidding process for the municipal road construction project, the indigenous firm managed to steal a march on its foreign competitors by submitting their technical proposal ahead of the published deadline. Which of the following options best conveys the meaning of the idiomatic expression in bold?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: gained an unexpected advantage over

Answer

The correct option is the one stating 'gained an unexpected advantage over'.
The idiomatic expression 'steal a march on someone' means to gain an unexpected or secret advantage over a rival, especially by acting before they do. In the sentence, the indigenous firm secured an advantage over foreign rivals by submitting its proposal ahead of the deadline.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the idiomatic expression in context
The phrase 'steal a march on' describes acting early or quietly to gain a favorable position over a competitor.
Idioms cannot be understood through literal word-by-word translation; their established figurative meaning within the sentence must be identified.
2
Evaluate the options against the figurative meaning
The phrase 'gained an unexpected advantage over' matches the scenario of submitting a proposal ahead of rivals to outmaneuver them.
Submitting required documentation early to get ahead of competitors demonstrates gaining a head start or unexpected advantage.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 728Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the correct word to complete the fixed prepositional collocation.

Fill in the blanks below

The regulatory agency warned that all manufacturing companies must operate in strict with environmental safety guidelines.
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Answer

compliance
The word 'compliance' completes the fixed prepositional phrase 'in strict compliance with', which is standard usage in formal and regulatory English contexts.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence frame and prepositions
Identified the structure 'in strict [noun] with'
English collocations mandate specific nouns to combine with fixed prepositional frames.
2
Select the correct noun matching 'in... with'
The word 'compliance' fits the fixed phrase 'in compliance with'
'Compliance' collocate natively with 'in' and 'with', whereas alternative synonyms like 'adherence' require 'to' (in adherence to) and 'accordance' requires 'with' but takes 'in accordance with' without 'strict' in the middle of this specific structure.

Key Concept

Fixed Prepositional Collocations
Question 729Question →

Examine the vocabulary terms in List A and their corresponding meanings. Which set of pairings correctly matches each formal word in List A with its exact antonym (word opposite in meaning) in List B?

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

LOQUACIOUS
ALACRITY
MAGNANIMOUS
EQUIVOCAL

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct pairings match LOQUACIOUS with RETICENT, ALACRITY with LETHARGY, MAGNANIMOUS with VINDICTIVE, and EQUIVOCAL with EXPLICIT.
Each word in List A is paired with its precise semantic opposite in List B: LOQUACIOUS (talkative) pairs with RETICENT (reserved); ALACRITY (eager promptness) pairs with LETHARGY (sluggishness); MAGNANIMOUS (forgiving/generous) pairs with VINDICTIVE (spiteful/revengeful); and EQUIVOCAL (ambiguous) pairs with EXPLICIT (clear/unambiguous).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Define each target word in List A.
LOQUACIOUS means excessively talkative; ALACRITY means energetic or prompt readiness; MAGNANIMOUS means generous and forgiving; EQUIVOCAL means vague or ambiguous.
Understanding the exact semantic meaning of each word is necessary to identify its opposite.
2
Pair each word in List A with its direct contextual antonym from List B.
RETICENT contrasts directly with talkative (LOQUACIOUS); LETHARGY contrasts directly with prompt eagerness (ALACRITY); VINDICTIVE contrasts directly with forgiving (MAGNANIMOUS); EXPLICIT contrasts directly with ambiguous (EQUIVOCAL).
Direct antonym matching requires identifying terms that express the opposite quality or state.

Key Concept

Identifying strict antonyms of advanced English vocabulary terms
Question 730Question →

Match each specialized occupational term on the left with its corresponding technical definition on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Nolle prosequi
Triage
Arbitrage
Latency

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Nolle prosequi correctly pairs with the prosecutor's formal notice to drop a criminal case; Triage pairs with the preliminary assessment and classification of patients for treatment priority; Arbitrage pairs with the simultaneous buying and selling of assets to profit from price differences; Latency pairs with the measure of time delay during network data transmission.
Each specialized term is matched accurately to its distinct occupational field: Nolle prosequi belongs to legal prosecution; Triage belongs to emergency medicine; Arbitrage belongs to financial trading; Latency belongs to computer networking.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Examine the legal register term 'Nolle prosequi'
Identify that it refers to a formal declaration by a prosecutor to discontinue criminal proceedings.
Recognizing Latin legal terminology in judicial procedure.
2
Examine the medical register term 'Triage'
Identify that it refers to classifying and prioritizing patients based on medical urgency.
Applying healthcare register knowledge in clinical emergency contexts.
3
Examine the financial register term 'Arbitrage'
Identify that it refers to exploiting price variances of assets across different markets.
Applying investment and trading terminology.
4
Examine the ICT register term 'Latency'
Identify that it refers to network delay or lag during data transmission.
Applying computer science and networking terminology.

Key Concept

Occupational and Specialized Registers
Question 731Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the correct pair of commonly confused words for the blanks.

Fill in the blanks below

The executive director paid a warm to the research team for their breakthrough report, noting that their innovative methodology served as a perfect to the organization's strategic vision.
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Answer

The correct words to complete the sentence are 'compliment' for the first blank and 'complement' for the second blank.
In the sentence, 'compliment' is correctly used in the first blank to indicate an expression of praise given by the director. 'Complement' is correctly used in the second blank to denote something that enhances or fits together well with the strategic vision.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the first blank
The director is expressing praise or admiration to the research team, which requires the noun 'compliment'.
A 'compliment' refers to an expression of praise, commendation, or admiration.
2
Analyze the context of the second blank
The innovative methodology completes or enhances the organization's strategic vision, requiring the noun 'complement'.
A 'complement' refers to something that completes, balances, or brings something else to perfection.

Key Concept

Distinction between 'compliment' (praise) and 'complement' (that which completes or enhances)
Question 732Question →

Complete the statement below by supplying a word nearest in meaning to 'meticulous' that accurately fits the context of extreme attention to detail.

Fill in the blanks below

The chief archivist was exceptionally in preserving delicate historical manuscripts, examining every folio under high magnification to prevent any degradation.
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Answer

The correct word is 'fastidious' (or accepted synonyms such as 'scrupulous', 'painstaking', or 'meticulous'), which means showing great care, precision, and exacting attention to detail.
The word 'fastidious' directly conveys the meaning of being excessively particular or demanding of accuracy and detail, perfectly aligning with the contextual requirement of examining delicate manuscripts under magnification.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual clues in the sentence
The sentence describes an archivist examining manuscripts under magnification to prevent damage, signaling extreme care and precision.
Contextual meaning determines which synonym correctly captures the precise level of thoroughness.
2
Identify words nearest in meaning to 'meticulous'
Terms like 'fastidious', 'scrupulous', and 'painstaking' denote being overly attentive to accuracy and detail.
Selecting a word with the exact semantic register satisfies the synonym requirement.

Key Concept

Identifying contextual synonyms and words nearest in meaning in formal register
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 733Question →

During a commercial flight, the air traffic controller instructed the pilot to activate the onboard transmitter that broadcasts a unique four-digit code to secondary surveillance radar systems for identification. Which specialized aviation term refers to this device?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: transponder

Answer

The correct term is transponder, which denotes the specialized electronic transmitter aboard an aircraft that responds to radar inquiries with an identification code.
The word transponder (a blend of transmitter and responder) specifically denotes an airborne telecommunication device that emits an identifying signal in response to an interrogation radio frequency from radar stations.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the stem to determine the exact functional description.
The device in question is located on an aircraft, interacts with air traffic control radar, and broadcasts a four-digit squawk code for identification.
Identifying the functional requirement isolates the specific specialized register term needed.
2
Evaluate the specialized aviation vocabulary options against the description.
A transponder (transmitter-responder) is specifically designed to emit an identifying code when pinged by radar. An altimeter measures altitude, a tachometer measures engine RPM, and an accelerometer measures rate of acceleration change.
Only transponder matches the specialized definition required by the context.

Key Concept

Specialized Aviation Register Terminology
Question 734Question →

The presiding magistrate was widely commended for taking a __________ approach to sentencing, balancing strict statutory requirements with a practical understanding of community welfare. Which of the following words correctly completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: judicious

Answer

The word 'judicious' correctly completes the sentence because it means demonstrating sound judgment, prudence, and wisdom in decision-making.
The word 'judicious' is an adjective meaning showing good judgment, prudence, or wisdom. In the context of the sentence, it properly describes the magistrate's wise and balanced approach to sentencing.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The sentence describes a magistrate's wise, balanced, and prudent approach to sentencing.
Understanding context determines the required meaning and part of speech needed in the blank.
2
Identify the grammatical role required for the blank
An adjective is needed to modify the noun 'approach'.
The blank comes after the article 'a' and before the noun 'approach'.
3
Differentiate between confusable paronyms and word forms
'Judicious' means wise/prudent, whereas 'judicial' means related to legal courts/justice administration, 'judiciary' is a noun, and 'judiciously' is an adverb.
'Judicious' is the only option that is both grammatically correct (adjective) and semantically appropriate (wise/prudent).

Key Concept

Distinction between commonly confused words (paronyms): 'judicious' vs 'judicial'
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 735Question →

To prevent further escalation of the industrial dispute, the trade union leaders called on the striking workers to _______ restraint during public demonstrations. Which of the following verbs correctly completes the fixed collocation in the sentence above?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: exercise

Answer

The verb 'exercise' correctly completes the fixed collocation 'exercise restraint'.
The expression 'exercise restraint' is a standard fixed collocation in formal English used to indicate demonstrating self-control, moderation, or discipline in a delicate situation.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the target noun needing a collocating verb
The target noun in the sentence gap is 'restraint'.
Collocations rely on natural, conventional word pairings rather than literal meaning alone.
2
Evaluate the conventional usage of verbs paired with 'restraint' in formal contexts
'Exercise' is the established, standard verb paired with 'restraint'.
Formal English fixed expressions overwhelmingly use 'exercise restraint' to denote demonstrating discipline or moderation.

Key Concept

Fixed Verb-Noun Collocations
Question 736Question →

Which word, formed by attaching the appropriate negative prefix and suffix to the base verb 'replace', correctly completes the sentence below?

Fill in the blanks below

The historic artifacts destroyed during the warehouse fire were deemed completely by the museum curators.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

irreplaceable
The word 'irreplaceable' is correctly formed by applying the adjectival suffix '-able' to the root verb 'replace', followed by the negative prefix 'ir-'. The prefix 'ir-' is a phonetic variant of 'in-' that assimilates specifically before root words beginning with the consonant 'r'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the required part of speech for the blank.
The position following the adverb 'completely' and modifying the noun 'artifacts' requires an adjective.
Syntactic context determines that an adjectival form derived from the verb 'replace' is necessary.
2
Derive the adjective form and attach the correct negative prefix.
Adding the suffix '-able' to the base verb 'replace' creates 'replaceable'. Attaching the assimilating prefix 'ir-' (used before roots starting with 'r') forms 'irreplaceable'.
The prefix 'in-' assimilates to 'ir-' before words starting with the liquid consonant /r/ to express negation ('cannot be replaced').

Key Concept

Prefix assimilation and adjectival suffixation
Question 737Question →

Fill in the blank with the appropriate particle to complete the phrasal verb in the sentence below.

Fill in the blanks below

To prevent hyperinflation from destroying the economy, the central bank governor emphasized the urgent need to rein excessive public expenditure.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct particle to complete the sentence is 'in', forming the phrasal verb 'rein in'.
The phrasal verb 'rein in' means to limit, restrain, or control something that has become excessive, such as government spending or inflation.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence to determine the required meaning of the phrasal verb.
The sentence discusses curbing or controlling runaway public expenditure to stabilize the economy.
The verb 'rein' combined with a specific particle creates an idiomatic expression derived from controlling a horse with reins.
2
Identify the particle that collocates with 'rein' to express restraint or limitation.
The preposition/adverb 'in' pairs with 'rein' to mean to limit, control, or reduce something.
'Rein in' is the standard Standard British English phrasal verb meaning to bring under control or restrict.

Key Concept

Phrasal Verbs and Prepositional Verbs
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 738Question →

Which word nearest in meaning to 'clandestine' correctly completes the sentence below?

Fill in the blanks below

The investigative reporter exposed the executive's meetings with rival firm officials to trade insider secrets.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word 'surreptitious' (or 'covert') correctly completes the blank because it means done in secrecy or by stealth, which is nearest in meaning to 'clandestine'.
The word 'surreptitious' means kept secret or done stealthily, which directly mirrors the meaning of 'clandestine' in the context of unrecorded, secret meetings.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target word and context
The target word 'clandestine' refers to actions conducted secretly or kept hidden, especially because they are illicit.
Understanding the context of trading insider secrets requires a word describing secret, undisclosed meetings.
2
Select the appropriate contextual synonym
The word 'surreptitious' directly denotes stealthy, secret behavior and fits grammatically and contextually into the blank.
Both 'clandestine' and 'surreptitious' share the core denotative meaning of covert activity.

Key Concept

Contextual Synonyms and Lexical Selection
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 739Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the most appropriate specialized journalism register term in the blank.

Fill in the blanks below

To prevent premature publication of the sensitive investigative story before the official press conference, the chief editor placed a temporary on the news report.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct term to complete the sentence is 'embargo'.
In journalism and media publishing, an 'embargo' refers to a request or requirement by a source or publisher that information provided not be published or broadcast until a specified date or time.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence to identify the specialized occupational domain.
The sentence describes a situation in journalism and publishing involving news reports and news release timing.
Identifying the field (journalism/media register) narrows down the technical terminology.
2
Determine the meaning required by the context.
The required term refers to an official ban or restriction prohibiting news organizations from publishing or broadcasting a report until a specified date or time.
The sentence specifies preventing 'premature publication' until an 'official press conference'.
3
Select the precise specialized register term that fits the blank.
The correct media term is 'embargo' (or news embargo).
'Embargo' specifically denotes a prohibition on publishing news before a set release time.

Key Concept

Journalism and Media Register - News Embargo
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 740Question →

The newly uncovered forensic evidence serves to ________ the testimony provided by the key witness during the trial. Which of the following options best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: bear out

Answer

The correct phrasal verb to complete the sentence is 'bear out'.
The correct phrasal verb 'bear out' means to confirm, substantiate, or corroborate a claim or statement, perfectly fitting the context of forensic evidence confirming witness testimony.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context to determine the intended meaning.
The context requires a verb meaning to corroborate, confirm, or substantiate the witness testimony using forensic evidence.
Forensic evidence is evaluated based on whether it supports or refutes statements given by witnesses.
2
Evaluate the phrasal meanings of the verb 'bear' combined with different particles.
'Bear out' means to confirm or substantiate, whereas 'bear up' means to endure distress, 'bear down' means to exert pressure, and 'bear off' means to steer away.
Only 'bear out' provides the accurate idiomatic meaning required to complete the clause correctly.

Key Concept

Phrasal Verbs and Prepositional Verbs
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Lexis and Vocabulary Practice Questions — JAMB UTME — Page 37 | Examkin