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Lexis and Vocabulary

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Question 121Question →

Which idiomatic expression correctly completes the sentence below to indicate a total and comprehensive acquisition?

Fill in the blanks below

Rather than acquiring only the firm's manufacturing division, the conglomerate bought the entire enterprise , taking over all its assets, liabilities, and patents.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct idiomatic expression is 'lock, stock, and barrel'.
The idiomatic expression 'lock, stock, and barrel' means completely and entirely, leaving nothing out. In the sentence provided, it accurately describes the total purchase of the enterprise along with all its associated components.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence.
The sentence describes buying an entire business enterprise comprehensively, including all of its physical assets, debts, and patents.
Contextual clues point to an idiom that signifies complete, all-inclusive ownership or takeover.
2
Identify the precise English idiomatic expression that expresses total inclusion.
The expression 'lock, stock, and barrel' means entirely or including every single part.
Historically referring to the three essential parts of a firearm, the phrase has evolved into a standard idiom representing total completeness.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 122Question →

The magistrate advised the defendant to seek professional legal ________ before entering a plea. Which of the following words correctly completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: counsel

Answer

The correct word to fill the blank is 'counsel'.
The word 'counsel' is correct because it functions as a noun meaning legal advice or guidance provided by a lawyer, which fits the sentence context perfectly.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The sentence describes a legal situation where a defendant needs professional legal advice or guidance from a lawyer.
Identifying the required part of speech and context is essential for selecting the correct homonym.
2
Evaluate the meanings of the confusable words
'Counsel' means legal advice or a lawyer; 'council' means an administrative committee; 'consul' means a diplomatic officer; 'console' means to comfort.
Distinguishing between phonetically similar words ensures accurate lexical selection.
3
Select the contextually appropriate term
'Counsel' fits both grammatically and semantically.
Only 'counsel' provides the exact meaning of legal advice required by the sentence.

Key Concept

Words Commonly Confused and Homonyms
Question 123Question →

Complete the sentence below by providing the correct word for each blank.

Fill in the blanks below

Rather than remaining in the face of widespread institutional corruption, the newly appointed auditor launched a thorough investigation, carefully navigating the legal regulations to expose all fraudulent practices.
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Answer

Blank 1 requires 'complacent' (meaning self-satisfied or unconcerned in the face of danger or error), while Blank 2 requires 'tortuous' (meaning full of twists and turns, highly complex or convoluted).
The context demands 'complacent' in the first blank to convey passive self-satisfaction or apathy toward corrupt practices, and 'tortuous' in the second blank to describe intricate, winding legal regulations.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the first blank to determine the intended meaning.
The clause contrasts launching an active investigation with remaining passively unconcerned about corruption. The correct word is 'complacent', not 'complaisant'.
'Complacent' means marked by self-satisfaction or uncritical apathy, whereas 'complaisant' means overly eager to please or oblige others.
2
Analyze the context of the second blank to distinguish between orthographically similar paronyms.
The sentence describes navigating intricate, highly complex legal processes. The correct word is 'tortuous', not 'torturous'.
'Tortuous' means winding, crooked, or excessively complex, whereas 'torturous' means involving or causing severe pain or torture.

Key Concept

Distinguishing between commonly confused paronyms (complacent/complaisant and tortuous/torturous) in formal discourse.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 124Question →

During the parliamentary inquiry, the managing director offered only CIRCUMSPECT responses to the committee's probing questions, taking care not to disclose proprietary financial details. Which of the following options is most nearly opposite in meaning to the bold word as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Reckless

Answer

Reckless
In the context of the sentence, 'circumspect' means careful, prudent, and guarded against taking unnecessary risks. The word 'reckless' means rash, careless, and unmindful of consequences, making it the exact antonym of circumspect.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the contextual meaning of the target word CIRCUMSPECT in the sentence.
In this context, 'circumspect' describes someone who is cautious, guarded, and prudent to avoid committing errors or revealing sensitive information.
Determining the precise contextual sense of the word is required before seeking its antonym.
2
Determine the word opposite in meaning (antonym) to being cautious and guarded.
The opposite of exercising caution and prudence is acting in a rash, careless, or reckless manner.
An antonym must negate the specific core meaning of the target word in context.
3
Evaluate the choices to select the accurate antonym while avoiding distractor traps.
'Reckless' is the correct antonym, whereas 'prudent' is a synonym, 'circular' is a paronym distractor, and 'diplomatic' is a register mismatch.
This step validates the correct option against the specific error taxonomy of JAMB UTME items.

Key Concept

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning
Question 125Question →

Complete the sentence below by filling in the blank with a word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the emphasized word. Which word best completes the blank?

Fill in the blanks below

Although the new director was criticized for his OSTENTATIOUS lifestyle and flashy display of wealth, his predecessor was widely admired for being and restrained.
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Answer

modest (or unassuming / understated / humble)
The word 'OSTENTATIOUS' describes behavior intended to attract notice, show off, or impress others with wealth or style. The word 'modest' (or 'unassuming') represents the exact opposite attribute, referring to someone who is reserved, humble, and unpretentious.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the meaning of the emphasized target word.
The word 'OSTENTATIOUS' means showy, pretentious, or designed to impress and attract attention.
Understanding the baseline vocabulary word is necessary before seeking its opposite.
2
Analyze the contrast indicator in the sentence structure.
The opening word 'Although' and the contrast between 'criticized' and 'admired' indicate that the blank requires a trait directly contrasting with ostentatiousness.
Sentence context dictates that the required word must mean quiet, moderate, or unpretentious.
3
Determine the exact contextual antonym.
'modest' (or 'unassuming') is the precise antonym of ostentatious.
A modest person avoids attracting attention and does not make pretentious displays of wealth or status.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms
Question 126Question →

To prepare thoroughly for her upcoming examination, Amina decided to burn the midnight oil every night. What is the meaning of the expression *burn the midnight oil* in this context?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: To study or work late into the night

Answer

To study or work late into the night
The idiomatic expression 'burn the midnight oil' means to stay up late reading, studying, or working. In the context of exam preparation, it highlights extra effort spent studying late into the night.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
Amina is preparing for an upcoming examination and needs extra preparation time.
Contextual clues indicate an effort to achieve academic success through dedicated study.
2
Identify the figurative meaning of the idiom
The phrase 'burn the midnight oil' historically refers to using oil lamps to read or work past bedtime, which figuratively means studying or working late into the night.
Idioms cannot be understood by taking their individual words literally; their established figurative meaning must be applied.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Estimated Time:45s
Question 127Question →

Although the defeated candidate had every reason to harbor bitterness after the contentious election campaign, her MAGNANIMOUS gesture toward the victor surprised both her supporters and opponents alike.

In the sentence above, which word is MOST NEARLY OPPOSITE in meaning to the capitalized word?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: vindictive

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'magnanimous' is 'vindictive'.
In the given sentence, 'magnanimous' describes a generous, forgiving, and noble attitude despite a bitter conflict. The word 'vindictive' means spiteful and eager for revenge, making it the direct opposite in meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual meaning of the capitalized word
In the context of reacting graciously after a bitter election, 'magnanimous' means noble, forgiving, and generous in spirit.
Determining contextual meaning is required before identifying its true antonym.
2
Evaluate the options for the exact opposite meaning
'Vindictive' (unforgiving, revengeful) represents the direct opposite of a forgiving, noble gesture.
An antonym must express the opposing quality in the same contextual domain of personal temperament.

Key Concept

Identifying Contextual Antonyms
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 128Question →

Match each advanced vocabulary word in the left column with the word in the right column that is most nearly opposite in meaning to it.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Tractable
Recondite
Equanimity
Prolix

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct pairings are: Tractable matches Refractory; Recondite matches Manifest; Equanimity matches Perturbation; Prolix matches Laconic.
Each word is matched with its exact antonym: 'Tractable' (easily led) contrasts directly with 'Refractory' (stubbornly resistant); 'Recondite' (deeply hidden or obscure) contrasts with 'Manifest' (clearly visible or obvious); 'Equanimity' (mental calmness) contrasts with 'Perturbation' (mental distress or turmoil); and 'Prolix' (overly lengthy in speech/writing) contrasts with 'Laconic' (brief and concise).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the core meaning of each target vocabulary word in the left column.
Tractable means compliant/manageable; Recondite means abstruse/obscure; Equanimity means composure/calmness; Prolix means verbose/wordy.
Defining the left items accurately is necessary to identify their exact contextual opposites.
2
Examine the meaning of each potential antonym in the right column.
Perturbation means agitation/disquiet; Refractory means obstinate/unmanageable; Laconic means concise/terse; Manifest means obvious/evident.
Understanding the definitions in the right column allows precise contrast against the left items.
3
Pair each word from the left column with its corresponding opposite from the right column.
Tractable pairs with Refractory, Recondite pairs with Manifest, Equanimity pairs with Perturbation, and Prolix pairs with Laconic.
Each pair establishes a direct relationship of semantic opposition.

Key Concept

Identifying strict contextual antonyms for high-level tertiary English vocabulary.
Estimated Time:2m 0s
Question 129Question →

During the parliamentary debate on fiscal policy, the finance minister and the opposition leader continued to lock horns over the proposed tax reforms. Which of the following best expresses the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: engage in a prolonged dispute or conflict

Answer

The idiomatic expression 'lock horns' means to engage in a disagreement, dispute, or conflict.
The idiomatic phrase 'lock horns' derives from the imagery of animals with horns locking them together in combat. Figuratively, it means to enter into a heated argument, debate, or conflict with someone.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the underlined idiomatic expression in the sentence
The expression is 'lock horns'.
Contextual analysis requires focusing on the figurative meaning of the specific idiom.
2
Analyze the context of a parliamentary debate between political opponents
The context implies conflict or argumentation over policy.
Debates between political rivals typically involve opposing viewpoints.
3
Select the option that reflects the figurative meaning of conflict
The option stating 'engage in a prolonged dispute or conflict' correctly defines 'lock horns'.
The phrase originates from animals clashing their horns together during a fight, symbolizing conflict.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 130Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying a word opposite in meaning to the bold capitalized word.

Fill in the blanks below

Although the lead researcher presented a PERSPICUOUS argument in favor of the new hypothesis, the reviewing panel found the methodology to be and difficult to interpret.
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Answer

obscure (or vague / ambiguous / opaque / nebulous)
The word 'perspicuous' means clearly expressed, lucid, or easy to understand. The sentence opens with the contrast marker 'Although', indicating that while the argument was clear, the methodology was the opposite. Words such as 'obscure', 'vague', or 'ambiguous' express an absence of clarity and precisely serve as antonyms to 'perspicuous'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the contextual meaning of the capitalized word 'PERSPICUOUS'.
'Perspicuous' means clearly expressed, lucid, and easy to understand.
Understanding the target vocabulary word is required to identify its opposite.
2
Analyze the sentence structure for contrast clues.
The subordinating conjunction 'Although' signals a contrast between the researcher's clear argument and the panel's perception of the methodology.
The missing word must convey an opposite quality to clarity to complete the contrast alongside 'difficult to interpret'.
3
Select an appropriate antonym.
Words such as 'obscure', 'vague', 'ambiguous', or 'opaque' mean unclear and difficult to perceive, providing the exact antonym required.
Inserting an antonym maintains the logical coherence of the sentence.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms
Question 131Question →

Read the sentence context below and fill in the blank with a single word that is nearest in meaning to the target word in brackets.

Fill in the blanks below

The CEO's [magnanimous] gesture of allocating a portion of company profits to the employees' welfare fund was praised as exceptionally .
Show answer & explanation

Answer

generous (or benevolent / altruistic / charitable)
The word 'magnanimous' means generous, forgiving, or noble in spirit. In the given sentence, a word such as 'generous' or 'benevolent' fits the context of an unselfish act of giving to an employee welfare fund.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the meaning of the target word 'magnanimous' in context.
'Magnanimous' refers to showing noble, generous, or unselfish behavior, especially toward others.
The context describes donating corporate funds for employee welfare, indicating selfless giving.
2
Select a fitting synonym to complete the sentence.
The word 'generous' (or 'benevolent') captures the essence of selfless giving and fits the grammatical structure of the sentence.
It maintains the original meaning and natural tone of the sentence.

Key Concept

Contextual synonyms and vocabulary nearest in meaning
Question 132Question →

During the pre-publication phase of an academic textbook, the editorial team sent the author preliminary set-up pages printed in continuous columns without final page breaks, specifically intended for detecting typographical errors. Which specialized publishing term refers to these preliminary printed sheets?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: galley proofs

Answer

The term 'galley proofs' is the correct specialized publishing term for preliminary trial pages printed for proofreading before final printing.
In the publishing and printing industry, 'galley proofs' (or 'galleys') are trial impressions taken from set type before it is divided into pages. They allow authors, editors, and proofreaders to detect and fix typographical errors early in the production workflow.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the scenario context and occupational domain.
The context involves book publishing, typesetting, and pre-publication error checking.
Identifying the domain (Publishing and Printing) narrows the relevant specialized register terms.
2
Distinguish between terms related to pre-publication, typesetting, and post-publication stages.
'Galley proofs' refers specifically to continuous column trial prints created after typesetting but before final page layout.
Other terms represent either raw author submissions (manuscripts), post-printing corrections (errata), or standalone publications (offprints).

Key Concept

Occupational and Specialized Registers in Publishing and Printing
Question 133Question →

Despite his initial reluctance to address the press regarding the sudden policy changes, the committee members managed to __________ him to speak at the summit. Which option correctly completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: prevail upon

Answer

The phrasal verb 'prevail upon' correctly completes the sentence.
The phrasal verb 'prevail upon' (or 'prevail on') means to successfully persuade or induce someone to do something, which precisely fits the context of convincing a reluctant speaker.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence to determine the required meaning.
The subject is reluctant, but the committee successfully influences or persuades him to speak.
The blank requires a verb-preposition combination meaning 'to persuade' or 'to convince someone'.
2
Evaluate the phrasal/prepositional verb meanings.
'Prevail upon' means to persuade someone to do something. 'Prevail over' and 'prevail against' mean to defeat or triumph over an adversary.
Choosing the particle 'upon' yields the precise idiomatic sense demanded by the context.

Key Concept

Phrasal and Prepositional Verbs: Particle Selection and Contextual Meaning
Question 134Question →

While the board of directors expected an exhaustive audit, the chief inspector provided only a PERFUNCTORY examination of the financial statements. Which word is opposite in meaning to the capitalized word as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: painstaking

Answer

The word opposite in meaning to 'PERFUNCTORY' is 'painstaking'.
In the given sentence, 'PERFUNCTORY' is used to describe an examination that is conducted hastily, casually, and without interest or thoroughness. The word 'painstaking' means showing intense diligence, care, and meticulous attention to detail, making it the precise antonym required.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual meaning of the capitalized word 'PERFUNCTORY'.
In the sentence, 'perfunctory' describes an examination done hastily, superficially, and without genuine care or detail.
Understanding the context is essential for identifying the precise contextual antonym.
2
Identify the word among the choices that expresses the exact opposite idea.
'Painstaking' means showing diligent care and meticulous thoroughness, which directly opposes the careless and superficial nature of 'perfunctory'.
A contextual antonym must provide the contrasting meaning appropriate for describing an examination or evaluation.

Key Concept

Identifying contextual antonyms for formal English vocabulary in complex sentence structures.
Question 135Question →

Match each phrasal or prepositional verb listed in Column A with its corresponding contextual meaning in Column B.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

harp on
whittle down
zero in on
bargain for

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

'harp on' matches with 'To talk continuously and tediously about a particular matter'; 'whittle down' matches with 'To reduce the overall size or quantity of something gradually'; 'zero in on' matches with 'To direct all undivided attention toward a specific subject or target'; and 'bargain for' matches with 'To anticipate or take into account as a likely possibility'.
Each phrasal verb correctly corresponds to its established figurative definition: 'harp on' means to dwell on something tediously; 'whittle down' means to cut back or reduce gradually; 'zero in on' means to focus sharply; and 'bargain for' means to anticipate or factor in.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the expression 'harp on'
Identify that the verb refers to repetitive, wearisome talk on one subject.
'Harp on' derives from repeatedly playing the same string or tune, figuratively meaning to dwell tediously on a topic.
2
Analyze the expression 'whittle down'
Identify that it refers to progressive reduction.
Literally cutting small shavings off wood to shape it translates idiomatically to shaving down numbers or options.
3
Analyze the expression 'zero in on'
Identify that it signifies precise focus.
Originating from sight alignment, it means targeting or bringing full focus onto a specific issue.
4
Analyze the expression 'bargain for'
Identify that it signifies expectation or anticipation.
Commonly used in negative contexts (e.g., 'more than I bargained for'), meaning something expected or factored into calculations.

Key Concept

Understanding contextual meanings of idiomatic phrasal and prepositional verbs in English
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 136Question →

Which of the following words correctly completes the sentence below?

'The driver kept the vehicle ______ while waiting for the traffic light to turn green.'

Show answer & explanation

Answer: stationary

Answer

The correct word to complete the sentence is 'stationary'.
The word 'stationary' is an adjective meaning not moving or remaining in a fixed position, which accurately describes a vehicle stopped at a traffic light.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context
The sentence describes a vehicle remaining still at a traffic light.
Understanding context determines whether an adjective denoting immobility or a noun denoting writing supplies is required.
2
Distinguish between the homophones 'stationary' and 'stationery'
'Stationary' means unmoving (adjective), while 'stationery' refers to writing materials (noun).
Identifying the correct spelling ensures accurate word selection based on part of speech and meaning.

Key Concept

Distinguishing between homophones and commonly confused words based on context and grammatical function.
Estimated Time:45s
Question 137Question →

During the economic summit, the finance minister defended the government's PARSIMONIOUS budgetary allocations to public healthcare as a temporary measure to curb inflation. Which of the following words is MOST NEARLY OPPOSITE in meaning to the word PARSIMONIOUS as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: munificent

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'parsimonious' is 'munificent'.
In this context, 'parsimonious' describes spending or allocation that is extremely tight, miserly, or frugal. The word 'munificent' means characterized by liberal generosity or lavishness, making it the exact antonym required.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual meaning of the highlighted word
In the context of government budgeting that limits funding to public healthcare to curb inflation, 'parsimonious' means excessively frugal, meager, or stingy.
Understanding the exact contextual connotation of the target word is required before searching for its antonym.
2
Evaluate candidate antonyms against the target meaning
'Munificent' signifies characterized by great generosity or bountifulness, which directly contrasts with being meager and stingy in spending.
An antonym must express the opposite quality along the same semantic spectrum.
3
Eliminate distractors based on error categories
'Penurious' is a synonym (stingy/poor), 'prudent' reflects general financial caution rather than generosity, and 'fiscal' is a domain descriptor.
Distractors exploit prompt inversion (synonym for antonym) and register misapplication.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms and Advanced Lexical Contrast
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 138Question →

Far from adopting a TRUCULENT posture during the protracted labor dispute, the union leader maintained a surprisingly cooperative disposition, seeking peaceful compromises at every turn.

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

Show answer & explanation

Answer: conciliatory

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'TRUCULENT' is 'conciliatory'.
In the context of the sentence, 'TRUCULENT' means eager or quick to argue, aggressive, or defiant. The sentence establishes a clear contrast between a truculent posture and a cooperative disposition aimed at peaceful compromise. The word 'conciliatory' means intended or likely to pacify and build consensus, which is the exact opposite of being truculent.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target word within its syntactical context
The target word 'TRUCULENT' describes a hostile, combative, or defiant stance. The sentence contrast phrase 'Far from adopting...' followed by 'cooperative disposition' and 'seeking peaceful compromises' confirms that 'truculent' carries an aggressive, non-cooperative meaning.
Identifying the contextual meaning of the target word is necessary before searching for its antonym.
2
Determine the required relationship
The prompt demands the word most nearly OPPOSITE in meaning (antonym).
Focusing on the prompt requirement avoids prompt inversion errors.
3
Evaluate option meanings against the target word
'Conciliatory' means peacemaking, accommodating, or seeking compromise, which directly opposes the aggressive defiance of 'truculent'.
'Conciliatory' provides the precise semantic opposite needed to complete the sentence's contextual contrast.

Key Concept

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning in Context
Question 139Question →

After extended debate, the delegates managed to ________ a resolution that satisfied both factions. Which of the following phrasal verbs best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: hammer out

Answer

hammer out
The expression 'hammer out' idiomatically means to discuss something intensively until a formal agreement or solution is produced.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context
The context describes delegates coming to a mutually acceptable agreement after intense debate.
The blank requires a phrasal verb that signifies crafting or negotiating a decision through thorough discussion.
2
Evaluate the phrasal verb options
'Hammer out' is the established standard English phrasal verb meaning to settle or finalize an agreement.
The particles 'in', 'on', and 'off' do not form standard idiomatic phrasal verbs expressing resolution.

Key Concept

Phrasal Verbs with Idiomatic Meanings
Question 140Question →

Match each target word emphasized in Column A with its exact word opposite in meaning (antonym) from Column B.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

The manager praised the worker's PROMPT response to the urgent email.
The committee reached a UNANIMOUS decision after brief deliberations.
The weather conditions remained HARSH throughout the winter month.
She was an EXPONENT of democratic governance in the region.

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

'PROMPT' matches with 'Delayed'; 'UNANIMOUS' matches with 'Divided'; 'HARSH' matches with 'Mild'; and 'EXPONENT' matches with 'Opponent'.
Each emphasized word in Column A is paired correctly with its direct opposite in Column B based on standard English lexical definitions.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the contextual meaning of each capitalized target word in Column A.
'Prompt' indicates quickness, 'unanimous' indicates complete agreement, 'harsh' indicates severity, and 'exponent' indicates a supporter or advocate.
Understanding the precise contextual definition of each term is necessary to find its opposite.
2
Pair each word in Column A with its corresponding exact opposite term from Column B.
Match 'Prompt' to 'Delayed', 'Unanimous' to 'Divided', 'Harsh' to 'Mild', and 'Exponent' to 'Opponent'.
Antonyms express directly opposing or contrasting semantic qualities.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms and Word Meanings
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