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Lexis and Vocabulary

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Question 861Question →

Read the passage below carefully. Which exact word is required to complete the established idiomatic expression?

Fill in the blanks below

Instead of dealing with the multi-layered administrative bottleneck through tedious procedural reviews, the newly appointed vice-chancellor decided to cut the knot by abolishing the redundant bureaucracy entirely.
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Answer

Gordian
The established idiomatic expression is 'to cut the Gordian knot', which signifies taking swift, bold, and decisive action to solve a complex or intractable problem. In the given sentence, the vice-chancellor's act of completely abolishing the redundant bureaucracy rather than engaging in prolonged procedural reviews fits this precise meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context and structural intent.
The context describes taking a bold, decisive, and unconventional action to resolve a complex, long-standing administrative problem directly rather than using slow, traditional methods.
Understanding the context clarifies which fixed figurative phrase applies to the scenario.
2
Identify the missing component of the idiomatic expression.
The fixed idiom 'to cut the Gordian knot' means to solve an extraordinarily complex or difficult problem with swift, drastic action.
The proper noun 'Gordian' completes the historical and literary idiomatic expression.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 862Question →

The manager praised the accountant for her meticulous record-keeping during the annual audit. Which word is nearest in meaning to the underlined word?

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Answer: thorough

Answer

The word nearest in meaning to 'meticulous' is 'thorough'.
The word 'meticulous' means very careful and precise, paying great attention to detail. Therefore, 'thorough' is the word nearest in meaning in this sentence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The word describes how an accountant handled record-keeping to earn praise during an annual audit.
Context dictates whether a word implies precision, speed, difficulty, or neglect.
2
Define 'meticulous'
'Meticulous' means taking or showing extreme care about minute details; precise and thorough.
Determining the accurate contextual definition enables matching with the closest synonym.
3
Evaluate the option choices
'Thorough' best matches 'meticulous' in indicating completeness, accuracy, and attention to detail.
Comparing option meanings identifies the correct synonym while eliminating antonyms and unrelated terms.

Key Concept

Identifying Synonyms in Context
Question 863Question →

The investigative panel concluded that the claims made against the agency were spurious and lacked any factual foundation. Which word is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as used in the sentence?

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Answer: false

Answer

The word nearest in meaning to 'spurious' in this context is 'false'.
The word 'spurious' means fake, deceitful, or not genuine. In the context of the sentence, the claims lacked factual foundation, making 'false' the choice nearest in meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual clues in the sentence
The phrase 'lacked any factual foundation' indicates that the claims were unverified, baseless, or fake.
Contextual clues define the specific meaning required for the target word.
2
Evaluate the word 'spurious'
'Spurious' is an adjective meaning not being what it purports to be; false or fake.
Matching the definition of the target word with the context confirms its precise synonym.
3
Compare with the option choices
'False' directly corresponds to the meaning of 'spurious' in this administrative panel context.
The correct choice must capture the concept of lacking truth or authenticity.

Key Concept

Identifying contextual synonyms
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 864Question →

The diplomatic relations between the two neighboring countries have remained CORDIAL despite minor border disputes. Which of the following options is most nearly opposite in meaning to the capitalized word?

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Answer: Hostile

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'CORDIAL' is 'Hostile'.
In the sentence context, 'cordial' means warm, pleasant, and friendly. The word 'hostile', which means antagonistic or unfriendly, serves as its precise antonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence to determine the meaning of the target word.
The word 'CORDIAL' describes peaceful, warm, and friendly relations despite ongoing disputes.
Understanding the context establishes that a positive, friendly adjective is being used.
2
Identify the option that provides the exact opposite meaning to 'warm and friendly'.
'Hostile' means showing or feeling opposition or unfriendliness.
'Hostile' directly contradicts the friendly quality expressed by 'cordial'.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms
Estimated Time:45s
Question 865Question →

In formal legal nomenclature regarding hereditary succession, specific adjectival suffixes are added to root verbs to express precise legal conditions. Which of the following options correctly completes the sentence below?

"Following the royal decree, Lord Sterling was recognized as the heir __________ to the estate, as his entitlement remained subject to the possible birth of a closer heir."

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Answer: presumptive

Answer

The word 'presumptive' is the correct choice because the suffix '-ive' creates the specific legal adjective designating an inheritance right that is valid unless superseded by a closer relative.
The word 'presumptive' uses the adjective suffix '-ive' to signify an expectation based on current evidence that may be defeated by subsequent events, forming the standard legal term 'heir presumptive'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the root verb and contextual requirement of the sentence.
The root verb is 'presume' (from Latin 'praesumere'), requiring a derivative adjective that modifies 'heir' to express conditional inheritance.
The sentence specifies a legal condition where an inheritance status can be altered by a future birth.
2
Evaluate the morphological functions of the competing suffixes.
The suffix '-ive' produces 'presumptive' (based on reasonable inference/conditional legal status), whereas '-uous' produces 'presumptuous' (overly bold/arrogant), and '-able' produces 'presumable' (capable of being assumed).
Affix selection must align with both grammatical category and domain-specific terminology.
3
Select the proper derivative for the formal legal register.
'Presumptive' forms the standard legal collocation 'heir presumptive'.
This correctly conveys the intended legal nuance without paronym confusion.

Key Concept

Paronym affixation and suffix differentiation in formal registers
Question 866Question →

Match each word in Column A with the word in Column B that serves as its direct antonym (word opposite in meaning).

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Arduous
Diminish
Conceal
Subordinate

Matches

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Answer

The correct pairings align each word with its precise opposite: Arduous pairs with Effortless, Diminish pairs with Augment, Conceal pairs with Reveal, and Subordinate pairs with Superior.
Each pairing correctly connects a vocabulary term with its direct antonym based on standard English usage.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the literal definition of each word presented in Column A.
Arduous means difficult or strenuous; Diminish means to decrease; Conceal means to hide; Subordinate means lower in rank.
Establishing clear definitions of the primary words is essential for finding their exact opposites.
2
Evaluate the terms in Column B to find the precise contextual antonym for each item in Column A.
Effortless is the opposite of Arduous; Augment is the opposite of Diminish; Reveal is the opposite of Conceal; Superior is the opposite of Subordinate.
Matching each word to its direct semantic inverse completes the requirement.

Key Concept

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning
Question 867Question →

During the annual administrative review, the board commended the secretary's report for being articulate, transparent, and easy for all stakeholders to comprehend without ambiguity. Which of the following words, formed from classical Latin affixes and roots, best describes a speech or document that is expressed with such exceptional clarity?

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Answer: perspicuous

Answer

The word 'perspicuous' is the correct choice because it is an adjective specifically defined as clearly expressed and easy to understand.
The term 'perspicuous' combines the Latin prefix 'per-' (thoroughly/through) with the root 'spec-' (look/see) and the adjectival suffix '-uous'. It specifically describes language, writing, or presentation that is clear, lucid, and easy to comprehend.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The sentence requires an adjective describing a report/speech that is transparent, articulate, and easily understood by readers.
Determining the required part of speech and exact semantic nuance ensures correct word selection.
2
Deconstruct morphological components of the target root 'spec-/spect-'
The root 'spec-' means 'to look' or 'to see'. Combined with 'per-' (through) and suffix '-uous' (tending to/characterized by), 'perspicuous' literally means 'looking through', yielding the figurative meaning of transparently clear.
Understanding root and affix meanings distinguishes closely related paronyms.
3
Differentiate between paronyms 'perspicuous' and 'perspicacious'
'Perspicuous' applies to things that are spoken or written (lucid, clear), whereas 'perspicacious' applies to people or minds (shrewd, insightful).
Eliminates distractor words that sound similar but possess different applications.

Key Concept

Paronym differentiation and affixation using Latin root 'spec-' (to look/see)
Question 868Question →

Match each vocabulary term on the left with its exact antonym on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Intrepid
Perfidious
Equanimous
Prodigal

Matches

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Answer

Intrepid pairs with Craven; Perfidious pairs with Faithful; Equanimous pairs with Agitated; Prodigal pairs with Frugal.
Each left term is paired with its precise direct antonym: 'Intrepid' (fearless) contrasts with 'Craven' (cowardly); 'Perfidious' (treacherous) contrasts with 'Faithful' (loyal); 'Equanimous' (tranquil/composed) contrasts with 'Agitated' (troubled); and 'Prodigal' (recklessly wasteful) contrasts with 'Frugal' (economical).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the meaning of each word on the left list.
Intrepid means fearless; Perfidious means deceitful or treacherous; Equanimous means calm and composed; Prodigal means wastefully extravagant.
Establishing clear definitions is necessary to identify true semantic opposites.
2
Match each word to its direct semantic antonym on the right list.
Intrepid matches Craven (cowardly); Perfidious matches Faithful (loyal); Equanimous matches Agitated (disturbed); Prodigal matches Frugal (thrifty).
Antonyms express directly opposing meanings along the same conceptual dimension.

Key Concept

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning
Question 869Question →

In English morphology, classical Latin and Greek roots form the semantic foundation of many complex vocabulary words. Match each classical root on the left with its precise morphological meaning on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

-chron-
-gnos-
-mort-
-scrib- / -script-

Matches

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Answer

'-chron-' matches 'time or temporal order', '-gnos-' matches 'knowledge or knowing', '-mort-' matches 'death or dying', and '-scrib- / -script-' matches 'to write or record'.
Each root is correctly paired with its established Latin or Greek etymological definition.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the root '-chron-'
Recognize its usage in words such as 'chronometer' and 'synchronous' to establish its core meaning as time.
Connecting related vocabulary words helps determine the semantic essence of the root.
2
Analyze the root '-gnos-'
Associate it with terms such as 'diagnosis' and 'prognostic' to determine its reference to knowledge.
Recognizing morphemes across derivative word families clarifies classical Greek roots.
3
Analyze the root '-mort-'
Relate it to words like 'immortal' and 'mortuary' to confirm its meaning pertains to death.
Latin roots provide key semantic cues for formal English vocabulary.
4
Analyze the root '-scrib- / -script-'
Identify its presence in 'subscription' and 'description' to confirm its meaning is writing.
Root variants often represent the present and participial stems of Latin verbs.

Key Concept

Classical Roots and Morphological Derivation
Question 870Question →

The artist lamented that the fame achieved through viral social media trends is often EPHEMERAL, vanishing as quickly as it appears. Which of the following options is opposite in meaning to the capitalized word?

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Answer: Enduring

Answer

Enduring
In the context of the sentence, 'ephemeral' describes something that is fleeting, transient, and short-lived. The word 'enduring' means long-lasting or permanent, making it the precise antonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence to determine the meaning of the target word.
The phrase 'vanishing as quickly as it appears' indicates that EPHEMERAL means short-lived, temporary, or fleeting.
Contextual clues in JAMB UTME questions define the tone and exact meaning of the target word.
2
Identify the word that conveys the exact opposite meaning of temporary.
'Enduring' means lasting over a long period or permanent, which directly opposes 'ephemeral'.
The question specifically requests the word opposite in meaning (antonym).

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms
Estimated Time:50s
Question 871Question →

In the following sentence, choose the option that is MOST NEARLY OPPOSITE IN MEANING to the capitalized word.

The newly elected mayor was widely praised for his BENEVOLENT attitude toward the poor residents of the city.

Which of the following options is the correct antonym of BENEVOLENT in this context?

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Answer: malevolent

Answer

The word opposite in meaning to 'benevolent' is 'malevolent'.
The word 'benevolent' describes a kind, well-meaning, and charitable character. 'Malevolent' means exhibiting ill will or hatred, serving as the exact antonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the contextual meaning of the capitalized target word.
'Benevolent' comes from Latin roots meaning 'well-wishing' and in this context refers to a kindly, compassionate, and charitable disposition.
Understanding the precise meaning in context is necessary before identifying its antonym.
2
Evaluate the choices to find the word opposite in meaning.
'Malevolent' combines roots meaning 'bad/evil' and 'wishing', meaning actively wishing harm or evil, which directly opposes 'benevolent'.
The correct antonym must convey the polar opposite attitude.

Key Concept

Identifying Antonyms in Context
Question 872Question →

Which verb correctly completes the fixed collocation in the sentence below?

Fill in the blanks below

The investigative committee warned that public officials who aspersions on the character of whistleblowers without empirical proof would face immediate disciplinary action.
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Answer

The verb that correctly completes the fixed collocation is 'cast'.
The correct verb is 'cast', which combines with 'aspersions' to form the standard fixed collocation 'to cast aspersions on', meaning to criticize or malign someone's integrity.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context and identify the target fixed expression.
The sentence requires a verb that pairs with the noun 'aspersions' to mean expressing damaging accusations or critical remarks.
In standard formal English, the established fixed expression is 'to cast aspersions on (someone or something)'.
2
Evaluate standard collocational usage to eliminate unidiomatic alternatives.
'Cast' is uniquely bound to 'aspersions' in formal register. Substituting near-synonyms like 'throw', 'pass', or 'make' breaks standard usage.
Fixed collocations governed by convention do not permit arbitrary synonym substitution.

Key Concept

Fixed Verb-Noun Collocations
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 873Question →

Attending the weekly morning assembly at the school was COMPULSORY for all registered students. Which word is MOST NEARLY OPPOSITE in meaning to the capitalized word as used in the sentence above?

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Answer: optional

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'COMPULSORY' is 'optional'.
In the given sentence, 'compulsory' means required by rule or law. The word 'optional' means left to choice or discretionary, making it the exact antonym of compulsory.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target word in its context
In the sentence, 'COMPULSORY' indicates an obligation or rule that everyone must follow.
Understanding the contextual meaning of the target word is necessary before seeking its opposite.
2
Identify the opposite concept
The logical antonym of an obligatory requirement is something that can be chosen freely.
Antonyms express contrasting or opposing semantic qualities.
3
Evaluate the option choices to find the true antonym
'Optional' means left to choice or not required, which directly opposes 'compulsory'.
Selecting 'optional' satisfies the prompt requirement for a word opposite in meaning.

Key Concept

Identifying contextual antonyms in English vocabulary
Estimated Time:45s
Question 874Question →

Despite working two part-time jobs, the struggling artist could barely _______ ends meet in the expensive city. Which of the following words correctly completes the fixed expression in the sentence?

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Answer: make

Answer

The word 'make' correctly completes the fixed idiomatic expression 'make ends meet'.
The fixed expression 'make ends meet' is an established English idiom meaning to earn enough money to pay for necessities. The verb 'make' is the only word that correctly forms this conventional phrase.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the target fixed phrase contextually associated with managing personal finances and covering expenses.
Recognize that the sentence describes earning just enough income to survive financially.
English fixed phrases rely on specific, unalterable word pairings established by standard usage.
2
Select the correct verb to complete the phrase.
The conventional idiom is 'make ends meet'.
Verbs like 'bring', 'join', or 'reach' break the fixed collocation, making the sentence idiomatically incorrect.

Key Concept

Fixed Idioms and Collocations in English Lexis
Question 875Question →

In the sentence below, select the option that is MOST NEARLY OPPOSITE IN MEANING to the capitalized word.

Although the newly appointed administrator introduced the reform policies with considerable fanfare, their long-term impact on the rural healthcare system proved to be PERNICIOUS.

Which of the following words is opposite in meaning to PERNICIOUS as used in the context of the sentence?

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Answer: beneficial

Answer

The word opposite in meaning to PERNICIOUS is 'beneficial'.
In the provided sentence, 'pernicious' refers to something causing subtle, gradual, but severe harm or destruction. The word 'beneficial' means conferring benefits or producing good effects, which serves as a direct antonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target word in context
In the sentence, 'pernicious' describes policies that had a harmful, damaging, or destructive long-term effect despite a promising start ('introduced with considerable fanfare').
Determining contextual meaning is essential before searching for an antonym.
2
Identify the required semantic opposite
The opposite of a harmful or destructive effect is an effect that brings good, improvement, or advantage.
Antonyms require matching the core evaluative polarity (negative to positive).
3
Evaluate the option choices against the semantic opposite
'Beneficial' directly means producing advantageous or positive effects, providing a precise contextual antonym.
'Beneficial' contrasts directly with the harmful nature of 'pernicious'.

Key Concept

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning in Context
Question 876Question →

After months of intense negotiations, the trade union representatives finally succeeded in driving a ________ bargain, securing substantial wage increases and improved safety protocols for factory workers.

Which word correctly completes the fixed collocation in the sentence above?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: hard

Answer

The word 'hard' correctly completes the fixed collocation 'drive a hard bargain'.
The expression 'drive a hard bargain' is a well-established fixed collocation in English meaning to insist on getting the best possible terms during a negotiation. Only 'hard' completes this specific idiomatic structure correctly.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context and identify the structural gap
The context describes trade union representatives bargaining aggressively to achieve concessions.
Understanding the context points to an idiomatic expression related to tenacious business or contract negotiations.
2
Identify the standard fixed phrase and evaluate options against idiomatic usage rules
The verb phrase 'driving a ... bargain' strictly requires the adjective 'hard' to form the standard English collocation 'drive a hard bargain'.
Fixed collocations cannot be formed by substituting general synonyms like 'tough', 'firm', or 'strict', as collocational partnership depends on conventional usage rather than semantic equivalence.

Key Concept

Fixed Collocations and Idiomatic Verb-Noun Phrases
Question 877Question →

In the sentence below, fill in the blank with a word that is MOST NEARLY OPPOSITE IN MEANING to the capitalized word.

Fill in the blanks below

Although the union representatives were expected to remain INTRANSIGENT during the dispute, their attitude was surprisingly , enabling a swift agreement.
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Answer

compliant (or flexible / acquiescent / accommodating / yielding / amenable)
The target word 'INTRANSIGENT' means refusing to compromise or holding firmly to a position. The sentence contrast introduced by 'Although' signals that the union representatives did the opposite of what was expected. Terms like 'compliant', 'flexible', 'acquiescent', 'accommodating', or 'yielding' express a willingness to adjust one's position, making them accurate contextual antonyms.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the meaning of the capitalized target word 'INTRANSIGENT' in the context of the sentence.
'INTRANSIGENT' describes someone who is stubborn, unyielding, or uncompromising in their stance.
Determining the contextual meaning of the capitalized word is necessary before selecting its antonym.
2
Identify the structural contrast signal in the sentence clause.
The conjunction 'Although' signals a direct contrast between the expected behavior ('INTRANSIGENT') and the actual attitude shown during negotiations.
The missing word must convey the opposite idea of being uncompromising in order to complete the sentence logically.
3
Determine an appropriate antonym that fits both syntactically and semantically.
Words such as 'compliant', 'flexible', 'acquiescent', or 'accommodating' mean willing to yield or negotiate, serving as precise contextual antonyms.
Being compliant or accommodating directly reverses the concept of intransigence and explains why a swift agreement was reached.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms and Contrast Markers
Question 878Question →

Match each vocabulary word on the left with the word on the right that is most nearly opposite in meaning. Which mapping correctly pairs each word with its precise antonym?

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

dilatory
obfuscate
loquacious
supercilious

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct matches pair 'dilatory' with 'prompt', 'obfuscate' with 'clarify', 'loquacious' with 'reticent', and 'supercilious' with 'humble'.
Each target word is accurately paired with its semantic opposite: 'dilatory' (slow/delaying) pairs with 'prompt' (quick/punctual); 'obfuscate' (make obscure) pairs with 'clarify' (make clear); 'loquacious' (talkative) pairs with 'reticent' (reserved); and 'supercilious' (haughty) pairs with 'humble' (modest).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Define the precise meaning of each target vocabulary word in the left column.
'Dilatory' means slow or tending to delay; 'obfuscate' means to confuse or make obscure; 'loquacious' means overly talkative; 'supercilious' means arrogant or condescending.
Establishing the exact definition of each word is necessary before searching for its opposite.
2
Identify the direct antonym for each term among the options in the right column.
Tending to delay ('dilatory') is opposed by being 'prompt'; making obscure ('obfuscate') is opposed by 'clarify'; talkative ('loquacious') is opposed by 'reticent'; arrogant ('supercilious') is opposed by 'humble'.
Matching each word to its semantic opposite completes the correct mapping.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms and Direct Semantic Opposites
Question 879Question →

Read the sentence below carefully. Which word correctly completes the standard fixed phrase?

Fill in the blanks below

To ensure the university's research remained relevant, the department chair urged all senior faculty members to keep of recent advancements in artificial intelligence.
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Answer

The word 'abreast' correctly completes the fixed phrase 'keep abreast of', which means to stay informed about the latest developments or news.
The expression 'keep abreast of' is an established fixed collocation in standard English that means to remain up to date with new developments, knowledge, or information.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context and structural frame.
The gap occurs in the structural frame 'keep _____ of', positioned before 'recent advancements'. Context indicates remaining updated with modern progress.
English prepositional and fixed phrases rely on strict lexical collocations.
2
Identify the standard English collocation that fits the meaning of staying updated.
'Abreast' uniquely combines with 'keep' and 'of' to form 'keep abreast of'.
Other near-synonyms like 'informed' or 'aware' require different syntactic patterns (e.g., 'stay aware of' or 'keep someone informed about').

Key Concept

Collocations and Fixed Phrases
Question 880Question →

Which word nearest in meaning to 'overly servile and excessively eager to please' correctly completes the context below?

Fill in the blanks below

During the bilateral summit, the ambassador's stance toward the visiting delegation alienated colleagues who expected a posture of firm national dignity.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word 'obsequious' (or accepted synonyms 'fawning', 'sycophantic', 'servile') correctly completes the sentence by accurately describing an excessively submissive and overly eager effort to win favor.
The correct answer 'obsequious' precisely matches the intent of the sentence, as it describes a posture marked by servile attentiveness and excessive eagerness to flatter or oblige superiors.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual clues provided in the sentence.
The sentence contrasts an undesirable behavior with 'a posture of firm national dignity', indicating that the missing word denotes excessive, unseemly submissiveness.
Contextual contrast requires a term that connotes degrading deference.
2
Identify the precise vocabulary term corresponding to 'overly servile'.
The adjective 'obsequious' directly signifies overly obedient, servile, or fawning behavior.
It captures both the literal meaning of servility and the negative evaluative tone implied by the stem.

Key Concept

Contextual vocabulary application and identification of exact synonyms for formal register words.
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