Examkin

Lexis and Vocabulary

997 questions

All types997Multiple choice475Matching152Fill in the blank370
Question 901Question →

The minister's EQUIVOCAL declaration regarding the proposed tax reforms left both the press and the public thoroughly bewildered about the administration's true intentions.

Which of the following options is most nearly opposite in meaning to the capitalized word as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Unambiguous

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'EQUIVOCAL' is 'Unambiguous'.
In this sentence context, 'EQUIVOCAL' means vague, misleading, or intentionally ambiguous, as evidenced by the listener's confusion. 'Unambiguous' means perfectly clear and explicit, making it the direct opposite in meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target word in context
In the sentence, 'EQUIVOCAL' describes a statement that causes confusion and bewilderment regarding true intentions, indicating it means vague, uncertain, or open to multiple interpretations.
Contextual clues like 'thoroughly bewildered' and 'true intentions' clarify the meaning of the target word.
2
Identify the contextual antonym
'Unambiguous' means clear, direct, and leaving no room for misunderstanding.
A clear statement is the direct opposite of a statement that causes bewilderment and uncertainty.
3
Evaluate and eliminate distractors
'Ambiguous' is a synonym, 'Dubious' is misplaced in meaning, and 'Equivalent' is a root/sound confusion.
Eliminating options based on error taxonomy confirms that 'Unambiguous' is the only correct opposite.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms and Vocabulary Opposition
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 902Question →

During the panel debate, the moderator remained impartial so that both speakers received equal time to present their views. Which word is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: unbiased

Answer

unbiased
The word 'impartial' refers to treating all sides fairly and without prejudice. In the context of ensuring equal time for debate speakers, 'unbiased' accurately conveys this exact meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual clue in the sentence
The clause 'so that both speakers received equal time' indicates fair and equal treatment.
Context determines the precise meaning of the target word.
2
Match 'impartial' with its appropriate synonym
'Impartial' means not favoring one side over another, which means 'unbiased'.
Both terms describe a fair stance without personal prejudice.

Key Concept

Synonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning
Question 903Question →

Preparing for her final university entrance examination, Amina had to burn the midnight oil every day. Which of the following best expresses the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: work or study late into the night

Answer

The expression 'burn the midnight oil' means to work or study late into the night.
The idiomatic expression 'burn the midnight oil' figurative means to study or work late into the night. In the context of the sentence, Amina spent long hours studying late for her upcoming examination.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the idiomatic expression within the sentence context
The phrase 'burn the midnight oil' describes Amina's daily preparation for an important academic examination.
Context clues point to intensive study habits during exam preparation.
2
Identify the figurative meaning of the idiom
'Burning the midnight oil' historically refers to staying awake late into the night using lamp oil to read, study, or work.
Idioms must be interpreted by their figurative meaning rather than literal word definitions.

Key Concept

Figurative interpretation of standard English idioms
Question 904Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the exact word required to complete the idiomatic expression.

Fill in the blanks below

During the live national debate on fiscal policy, the opposition leader challenged the incumbent finance minister to produce audited records of public expenditure, thereby throwing down the .
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word required to complete the idiomatic expression is 'gauntlet'.
The idiom 'throw down the gauntlet' means to issue a formal challenge to someone. In the sentence context, challenging the finance minister to produce audited records represents throwing down the gauntlet.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context to determine the action being described.
The opposition leader is issuing a direct challenge to the finance minister.
Contextual clues like 'challenged' indicate a formal call to action or confrontation.
2
Identify the standard fixed idiomatic expression corresponding to issuing a challenge.
The fixed idiom is 'throw down the gauntlet'.
'Throw down the gauntlet' historically originates from knighthood and means to issue a challenge.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 905Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the word nearest in meaning to 'thrifty' in the given context.

Fill in the blanks below

To successfully manage her tight monthly budget, Mrs. Adebayo maintained a lifestyle, carefully avoiding any wasteful expenditure.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word 'frugal' (or 'economical') is nearest in meaning to 'thrifty', describing someone who avoids unnecessary spending and manages money carefully.
The word 'frugal' means economical and careful in the use of money or resources, making it nearest in meaning to 'thrifty' within the context of avoiding wasteful spending.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target concept 'thrifty' and the sentence context.
The context describes managing a tight budget and avoiding wasteful expenditure, which requires a word meaning careful with money.
Establishing the contextual meaning determines the exact synonym required for the blank.
2
Select the appropriate synonym to complete the sentence.
'Frugal' directly matches 'thrifty' in expressing economic prudence and non-extravagant living.
Both terms convey the practice of avoiding waste and spending wisely.

Key Concept

Synonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning
Estimated Time:45s
Question 906Question →

Fill in the blank with the exact word required to complete the idiomatic expression in the sentence below.

Fill in the blanks below

Determined to win the championship match after falling behind in the final minutes, the coach urged the team to pull out all the .
Show answer & explanation

Answer

stops
The correct word is 'stops'. The idiom 'pull out all the stops' originates from pipe organ controls and figuratively means to exert maximum effort without holding anything back.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the context and the incomplete idiomatic expression.
The sentence context describes making an all-out effort in a sports contest, forming the phrase 'pull out all the...'.
Idioms are fixed expressions that require specific conventional words to convey their intended figurative meaning.
2
Supply the exact word that completes the fixed idiom.
The word required is 'stops'.
The complete idiom 'pull out all the stops' means to make every possible effort or use all available resources to achieve success.

Key Concept

Completing fixed idiomatic expressions
Question 907Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the word nearest in meaning that correctly fits the blank.

Fill in the blanks below

The ambassador received a reception upon his arrival, making him feel instantly accepted and valued by his hosts.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word that correctly completes the sentence is 'cordial' (or 'warm' / 'friendly').
The sentence describes a reception that made the guest feel accepted and valued. Words like 'cordial', 'warm', or 'friendly' accurately capture this meaning of hospitable and sincere warmth.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The clause 'making him feel instantly accepted and valued' indicates that the reception was welcoming, pleasant, and hospitable.
Contextual clues in JAMB vocabulary questions determine the precise connotation required for the blank.
2
Identify the word nearest in meaning to describe such a reception
The word 'cordial' (or 'warm'/'friendly') describes an affectionate, sincere, and welcoming reception.
Selecting a direct synonym that fits both grammatically and contextually satisfies the requirements of the sentence.

Key Concept

Identifying synonyms and words nearest in meaning within a specific sentence context.
Question 908Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the correct word needed to form the established idiomatic expression. Which word correctly completes the sentence?

Fill in the blanks below

To ensure that no financial irregularities were overlooked during the audit, the committee resolved to leave no unturned.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

stone
The complete fixed idiomatic expression is 'leave no stone unturned', which means to investigate thoroughly or use every possible means to achieve a goal.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the idiomatic structure in the sentence context.
The phrase context 'leave no ... unturned' represents a well-known English idiom.
The standard fixed expression that means to search thoroughly or examine every possibility is 'leave no stone unturned'.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Estimated Time:45s
Question 909Question →

Rather than addressing the core administrative corruption in the ministry, the newly appointed director spent his entire tenure tilting at windmills.

Which of the following best conveys the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: engaging in futile attempts to defeat imaginary or exaggerated adversaries

Answer

engaging in futile attempts to defeat imaginary or exaggerated adversaries
The correct answer accurately defines 'tilting at windmills', an idiomatic expression meaning to confront or fight imaginary, exaggerated, or unbeatable opponents. In the context of the sentence, it describes the director pursuing irrelevant or useless struggles instead of dealing with actual administrative corruption.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual clues in the sentence stem.
The phrase 'Rather than addressing the core administrative corruption' indicates that the director's actions were ineffective and diverted from real issues.
Contextual contrast helps narrow down whether the expression carries a positive, negative, or unproductive connotation.
2
Identify the figurative meaning of the idiomatic phrase 'tilting at windmills'.
The expression means attacking imaginary enemies or pursuing futile, impractical causes.
Idioms cannot be interpreted literally by their component words; their established figurative meanings must be applied.
3
Match the figurative definition with the option that best reflects this concept.
The choice describing 'engaging in futile attempts to defeat imaginary or exaggerated adversaries' accurately matches the idiom.
It captures both the element of futility and the imaginary nature of the target.

Key Concept

Idiomatic Interpretation in Context
Question 910Question →

Match each vocabulary word in the left column with its precise antonym (word opposite in meaning) in the right column.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

sagacious
alacrity
copious
gregarious

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct pairings are: sagacious matches with fatuous; alacrity matches with reluctance; copious matches with meager; gregarious matches with reclusive.
Each left term is paired with its exact opposite in meaning: wisdom vs. foolishness (sagacious/fatuous), prompt readiness vs. unwillingness (alacrity/reluctance), abundance vs. scarcity (copious/meager), and social behavior vs. solitary retreat (gregarious/reclusive).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Define the target vocabulary words on the left
Identify that 'sagacious' relates to wisdom, 'alacrity' to eagerness/speed, 'copious' to abundance, and 'gregarious' to sociability.
Establishing clear definitions is necessary before finding antonyms.
2
Match each left term to its semantic opposite in the right column
Pair wise ('sagacious') with foolish ('fatuous'), eager promptness ('alacrity') with unwillingness ('reluctance'), abundant ('copious') with deficient ('meager'), and social ('gregarious') with solitary ('reclusive').
Direct semantic opposition defines the correct antonym pairings.

Key Concept

Identifying direct contextual antonyms for advanced English vocabulary.
Question 911Question →

The professor gave a lucid explanation of the complex economic theory, enabling all the students to understand the concept easily. Which word is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: clear

Answer

The word nearest in meaning to 'lucid' in this context is 'clear'.
The word 'lucid' in this sentence characterizes an explanation that is intelligible and easy to understand. Contextually, 'clear' is the word nearest in meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context for clues regarding the target word
The clause 'enabling all the students to understand the concept easily' defines the nature of the professor's explanation.
Contextual clues indicate that 'lucid' signifies clarity and intelligibility.
2
Compare option meanings against the target word in context
'Clear' directly matches the contextual meaning of being easily understood.
'Clear' is the appropriate synonym for 'lucid' when describing explanations or communication.

Key Concept

Contextual Synonym Identification
Question 912Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the word nearest in meaning that correctly fits the context.

Fill in the blanks below

Despite being an accomplished scholar, the guest speaker was surprisingly during public panel discussions, rarely uttering more than a few words unless directly prompted.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

reticent (or reserved, taciturn)
The correct response 'reticent' (or 'reserved' / 'taciturn') means disposed to be silent or not speak freely, perfectly aligning with the clue that the speaker 'rarely uttered more than a few words'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context clues within the sentence
The phrase 'rarely uttering more than a few words unless directly prompted' indicates a strong inclination toward silence or restraint in speech.
Contextual clues define the exact lexical meaning required to fill the blank.
2
Select a word nearest in meaning to describe a person who is disinclined to speak freely
The word 'reticent' (or its synonyms 'reserved' and 'taciturn') precisely describes someone who is habitually quiet or uncommunicative.
It accurately conveys the restrained verbal demeanor described in the passage.

Key Concept

Synonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning
Estimated Time:45s
Question 913Question →

The investigative panel dismissed the report after discovering that it was based on SPURIOUS allegations. Which of the following options is most nearly opposite in meaning to the capitalized word?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: authentic

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'spurious' is 'authentic'.
In the given sentence, 'spurious' means false, deceitful, or lacking genuine proof. The word 'authentic' means real, genuine, and verified, which serves as the exact opposite in meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the target word in the sentence
The word 'SPURIOUS' describes allegations that led an investigative panel to dismiss a report, indicating the allegations were false, fake, or ungrounded.
Understanding the contextual meaning of the target word is essential before searching for its opposite.
2
Determine the antonym requirement
An antonym for 'spurious' must mean genuine, true, valid, or authentic.
The question asks for the word most nearly opposite in meaning.
3
Evaluate the choices against the required antonym
'Authentic' directly means genuine and true, making it the precise contextual antonym.
Words like 'counterfeit' and 'specious' share similar meanings with 'spurious', while 'superficial' refers to depth rather than truthfulness.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms
Question 914Question →

Despite repeated warnings from his doctor about his failing health, Chief Ojo continued to turn a deaf ear to all medical advice. Which of the following best explains the meaning of the underlined expression?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Refuse to listen to or ignore advice deliberately

Answer

Refuse to listen to or ignore advice deliberately
The idiom 'turn a deaf ear' means to purposefully ignore or refuse to pay attention to advice, requests, or warnings. In the sentence, Chief Ojo deliberately disregarded his doctor's health warnings.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the idiomatic expression in the sentence context
The expression is 'turn a deaf ear'.
Recognizing the phrase as an established idiom helps prevent a literal interpretation.
2
Determine the figurative meaning of the expression within the context
To 'turn a deaf ear' means to deliberately refuse to listen, take notice of, or obey advice or warnings.
Idioms convey figurative meanings that differ from the literal definitions of their individual words.

Key Concept

Understanding and interpreting English idioms in context
Question 915Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying a word that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word in context.

Fill in the blanks below

Despite the fierce criticism from opponents, the minister remained adamant in her decision to reform the sector, proving to be completely throughout the deliberations.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word nearest in meaning to 'adamant' in this context is 'unyielding' (or 'resolute' / 'unwavering').
In formal English context, 'adamant' describes someone who maintains a firm, unshakeable stance despite pressure or opposition. Therefore, words like 'unyielding', 'resolute', or 'unwavering' convey the exact meaning needed to complete the sentence accurately.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual clues in the sentence
The sentence contrasts 'fierce criticism from opponents' with the minister's refusal to change her decision during deliberations.
The contextual contrast highlights a refusal to yield or compromise despite external pressure.
2
Identify the word nearest in meaning to 'adamant'
'Adamant' means refusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind, making 'unyielding', 'resolute', or 'unwavering' the precise contextual synonym.
Matching the definition and formal register of the word within administrative/socio-political prose.

Key Concept

Contextual Synonyms in Lexis and Vocabulary
Question 916Question →

Select the appropriate word required to complete the established idiomatic expression in the passage below.

Fill in the blanks below

Following the high court's liquidation ruling, the receiver took possession of the insolvent company's entire enterprise lock, , and barrel.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

stock
The word 'stock' completes the fixed three-part idiomatic phrase 'lock, stock, and barrel', which means completely or entirely, including every single component.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the contextual meaning and fixed structure of the idiom.
The sentence describes taking over an entire business completely and without exception.
English idiomatic expressions rely on fixed word combinations that cannot be altered arbitrarily.
2
Determine the exact word that forms the triad in the fixed idiom.
The phrase 'lock, stock, and barrel' originates from the constituent parts of a firearm, together signifying 'completely' or 'in its entirety'.
Inserting 'stock' correctly reconstructs the standard fixed idiom 'lock, stock, and barrel'.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 917Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the correct word needed to form the established idiomatic expression.

Fill in the blanks below

When confronted by the investigative committee, the accountant finally decided to bite the and admit his involvement in the financial scandal.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

bullet
The correct word is 'bullet', completing the established idiomatic expression 'to bite the bullet', which means to face a difficult situation with courage and accept the consequences.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the contextual requirement of accepting an inevitable and unpleasant situation.
The phrase describes someone forcing themselves to perform a painful or difficult duty.
The accountant must confess to his involvement despite the undesirable consequences.
2
Recall the fixed idiomatic expression corresponding to this meaning.
The established idiom is 'bite the bullet'.
Idioms rely on specific fixed words that cannot be altered or substituted.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Estimated Time:45s
Question 918Question →

The old manual typewriter has become completely obsolete with the widespread adoption of modern personal computers. Which word is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: outdated

Answer

The word nearest in meaning to 'obsolete' is 'outdated'.
In the given sentence, 'obsolete' refers to technology that is out of date and superseded by modern advancements. 'Outdated' captures this exact meaning of being no longer current or in use.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the underlined word in context
The word 'obsolete' describes a typewriter being replaced by modern computers.
Context clues ('widespread adoption of modern personal computers') indicate something that is no longer useful or current.
2
Evaluate the choices for synonym match
'outdated' directly conveys the meaning of being no longer in present use or style.
An item becomes obsolete when modern alternatives make it out of date.

Key Concept

Contextual Synonyms in Lexis and Vocabulary
Estimated Time:45s
Question 919Question →

During the parliamentary inquiry into municipal procurement, the auditor noted that the former director had sailed close to the wind throughout the contract negotiation process.

Which of the following options best captures the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: acted on the verge of illegal or unacceptable behavior

Answer

The expression 'sailed close to the wind' means acting on the verge of illegal, dangerous, or improper behavior.
The idiomatic expression 'sail close to the wind' originates from seamanship, referring to sailing as close as possible to the direction from which the wind blows, which carries high risk. Figuratively, it means acting on the edge of what is legal, moral, or acceptable, risking failure or penalty.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the underlined idiomatic expression
The target idiom is 'sailed close to the wind'.
Understanding the figurative meaning requires recognizing the idiom as a fixed figurative phrase.
2
Analyze the figurative meaning of the idiom in context
Originally a nautical phrase describing a ship sailing very close to the direction of the wind at high risk, figuratively it means operating at the extreme margin of safety, law, or propriety.
Contextual usage in a governance audit scenario points toward taking legal or ethical risks.
3
Evaluate the choices against the established meaning
The option defining the action as operating on the verge of illegal or unacceptable behavior accurately matches the figurative definition.
Distractors confuse literal meanings, make excessive assumptions of overt crime, or invert the meaning entirely.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 920Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the word nearest in meaning to describe keen, sharp judgment in the context provided.

Fill in the blanks below

The chief auditor's investigation uncovered subtle accounting discrepancies that had escaped the notice of previous inspectors.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word nearest in meaning that correctly completes the blank is 'astute' (or 'shrewd' / 'discerning' / 'meticulous').
In this context, the blank requires a word that means having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage, such as 'astute', 'shrewd', or 'discerning'. This fits the auditor's ability to uncover hidden discrepancies.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The sentence describes an investigation by a chief auditor that successfully uncovered subtle financial errors missed by others.
Contextual clues ('uncovered subtle discrepancies', 'escaped notice of previous inspectors') demand an adjective that means sharp, perceptive, and thorough.
2
Identify the contextual synonym
'Astute', 'shrewd', or 'discerning' accurately expresses the idea of keen mental insight and sharp observation required in audit investigations.
These words appropriately describe an investigation driven by high acuity and thoroughness.

Key Concept

Contextual Synonyms in Professional Lexis
Estimated Time:1m 0s
PreviousPage 46 / 50Next
Lexis and Vocabulary Practice Questions — JAMB UTME — Page 46 | Examkin