2024 JAMB ENGLISH PAST QUESTIONS AND ANSWER

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2024 JAMB ENGLISH PAST QUESTIONS AND ANSWER

Last updated on December 4th, 2024 at 01:30 pm

The 2024 JAMB English Past Questions on this page contain 60 questions and more with every detailed solution. We have a quiz for this to test yourself; check out our Jamb English Quiz here.

Table of Contents

Passage for Questions 1-3

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

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

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

Naturally, they may have some slight foreboding on the contingency of their non-return. However, it is their courage for going in spite of these apprehensions that makes the world hail them so loudly today.**

(Akinyemi, A., Olupe, F., & Adetutu, S. (2012): Rubrics of English Language for Schools and Colleges. Divine Glory Printers, Abeokuta.)

Questions 1-3

1. According to the passage, success depends on:

A. Challenges
B. Brawn
C. Risks
D. Brain

2. What sort of life, according to the passage, will drive people back like aimless sheep to cave dwelling?

A. Life without risks
B. Life without science and technology
C. Life without ambition
D. Life without hope

3. “Rough” in the first sentence of the passage means:

A. Mountains and molehills
B. The dangers attributed to space travel
C. Challenges that will breed opportunities
D. Difficulties

Vocabulary and Phonetics

4. Choose the word with the same vowel sound as the one in bracket.

Band[a]ge

A. Cacophony
B. Says
C. Cage
D. Kite

5. From the options lettered A-D, choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word.

I have an aversion for war movies.

A. Dislike
B. Addiction
C. Preference
D. Bitterness

6. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word(s).

When night fell, we had to hasten to the motor park.

A. Disperse
B. Averse
C. Hurry
D. Return

7. Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme as:

Laugh

A. Life
B. Half
C. Ghost
D. Light

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

A. Exceeded / Extreme
B. Acceded / Access
C. Conceded / Excess
D. Eluded / Escape

9. Fill in the gap with the appropriate option:

Children are not allowed in the park …… dark.

A. At
B. Over
C. After
D. In

10. Choose the word with the same vowel sound as the letter(s) underlined.

Naked

A. Friend
B. Bead
C. Fed
D. Bid

11. Choose the word that has the same consonant sound as the one provided: /θ/

A. Without
B. Health
C. Mouth
D. Neither

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

A. Shun
B. Son
C. Sun
D. Short

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

Exist

A. Never
B. Isle
C. Meant
D. Helicopter

Synonyms and Antonyms

14. From the list of words lettered A to D, choose one that best describes the sentence.

James and Henry were at daggers drawn when I knew them. This means that they

A. Were always angry with each other
B. Always wore daggers
C. Were good at drawing daggers
D. Were fighting everybody

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

Bisi has become an indispensable member of staff.

A. Vital
B. Principal
C. Dedicated
D. Effective

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

Pin

A. Psychology
B. Pneumonia
C. Pseudonym
D. Pragmatic

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

My father is parsimonious.

A. Thrifty
B. Frugal
C. Generous
D. Ungenerous

18. From the list of words lettered A to D, choose one that best describes the sentence.

James and Henry were at daggers drawn when I knew them. This means that they

A. Were always angry with each other
B. Always wore daggers
C. Were good at drawing daggers
D. Were fighting everybody

19. Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).

Victor played the role of a haughty prince.

A. A haunted
B. A modest
C. A disturbed
D. An angry

20. Choose the word or group of words that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will, at the same time, correctly fill the gap in the sentence.

Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is beneficial to one’s health while eating processed foods is ……

A. Worrying
B. Painful
C. Tasteless
D. Harmful

Comprehension and Contextual Understanding

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

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

A. The stadium was not filled because of the weather
B. The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium
C. The crowd loved the weather at the stadium
D. The weather favored the crowd at the stadium

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

The conference is biennial.

A. The conference lasts for two years
B. The conference is held once every other year
C. The conference is held twice every year
D. The conference is held twice in two years

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

Only two ministers survived the recent cabinet reshuffle.

A. In recent changes in government, all but two ministers retained their posts
B. In the recent changes in government, all but two ministers remained alive
C. In recent changes in government, all but two ministers were sacked
D. In the recent changes in government, only two ministers were sacked

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

If he were here, it could be more fun.

A. He did not show up and so the occasion lacked much fun
B. He was expected but did not show up to liven up the occasion
C. There was no fun because he was not present
D. He was being expected to supply more fun

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

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

A. He takes a rather hazy view of our problems
B. He takes an unfavorable position concerning our problems
C. He takes a rather forceful view of our problems
D. He takes a sickly view of our problems

Grammar and Sentence Structure

27. Fill in the gap with the appropriate option:

Children are not allowed in the park …… dark.

A. At
B. Over
C. After
D. In

28. Fill in the gap in the sentence below with the appropriate option:

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

A. Be never
B. Never have been
C. Never had been
D. Have never be

29. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

We had to ….. the group headed by Taiwo.

A. Sell out
B. Sell off
C. Sell up
D. Selled

30. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

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

A. Hadn’t had
B. Never had
C. Haven’t had
D. Didn’t have

31. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

To check desertification in the arid zones, …… trees should be planted.

A. Drought-resisting
B. Drought-resistant
C. Drought-effective
D. Drought-proof

Usage and Contextual Vocabulary

32. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word.

I was skeptical about the story she told me.

A. Doubtful
B. Convinced
C. Ignorant
D. Confused

33. Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).

Victor played the role of a haughty prince.

A. A haunted
B. A modest
C. A disturbed
D. An angry

Pronunciation and Stress Patterns

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

Student

A. Propose
B. Superb
C. Refuse (N)
D. Rebel (V)

35. Choose the appropriate stress pattern from the options. The stressed words are in capital letters.

Fluency

A. flu-EN-cy
B. flu-en-CY
C. flu-en-cy
D. FLU-en-cy

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

Category

A. cat-e-GO-ry
B. CAT-e-go-ry
C. cat-e-go-RY
D. cat-E-go-ry

Questions Based on “The Life Changer” Novel

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

A. Their father
B. Lesson Teacher
C. Dinner
D. Arabic Teacher

38. This question is based on “The Life Changer” novel.

_________ is the euphemism used for cheat notes.

A. Salvation note of rescue
B. Note of deliverance
C. Holy note of rescue
D. Notes of salvation

39. This question is based on “The Life Changer” novel.

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

A. All of the above
B. Because he failed other subjects but passed maths and English
C. Because he registered with one of the miracle centers
D. Because he passed excellently on his first attempt

40. This question is based on “The Life Changer” novel.

Where did the police apprehend Talle?

A. At the village stream
B. At his residence
C. At the palace of Hakimi
D. At the village square

41. This question is based on “The Life Changer” novel.

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

A. Ahmed
B. Zaki
C. Habeeb
D. Talle

42. This question is based on “The Life Changer” novel.

Who among Salma’s roommate was reserved and withdrawn yet generous to a fault?

A. Ngozi
B. Tomiwa
C. Ada
D. None of them

43. This question is based on “The Life Changer” novel.

Ummi is an Arabic word that is directly translated to mean _____

A. My mom
B. My mother
C. Grandmother
D. Godmother

44. This question is based on “The Life Changer” novel.

In Lafayette, before a stranger is hosted or accommodated, permission must be requested and granted by _______

A. The Hakimi
B. The high priest
C. The governor
D. Community oracle

45. Choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the passage.

Bisi has become an indispensable member of staff.

A. Vital
B. Principal
C. Dedicated
D. Effective

Fill in the Blanks and Contextual Grammar

46. Fill in the gap in the sentence below with the appropriate option:

Peter and Jane love each other …… the difficulties they face.

A. Therefore
B. Despite
C. However
D. Besides

47. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

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

–6–

A. Late
B. Owed
C. Outstanding
D. Leftover

48. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–7–

A. Match wages
B. Match fees
C. Match bonuses
D. Match payments

49. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–8–

A. Push
B. Spur
C. Move
D. Instigate

50. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–9–

A. At
B. In
C. From
D. With

51. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–10–

A. Aford
B. Afford
C. Avoid
D. Annul

52. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–11–

A. Focus
B. Centre
C. Running
D. Front

53. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–12–

A. Showdown
B. Blow out
C. Show up
D. Show

54. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–13–

A. On time
B. As due
C. As and when due
D. For time

55. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–14–

A. Inspirer
B. Booster
C. Pusher
D. Boomer

56. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–15–

A. Attack
B. Getter
C. Goal
D. Attacker

Rhyme Scheme and Sound Recognition

57. Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme as the word below:

Day

A. Dare
B. Anime
C. Flight
D. Ball

58. Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme as the word below:

Laugh

A. Life
B. Half
C. Ghost
D. Light

Multiple Choice and Contextual Understanding

59. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word.

I was skeptical about the story she told me.

A. Doubtful
B. Convinced
C. Ignorant
D. Confused

60. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word.

I have an aversion for war movies.

A. Dislike
B. Addiction
C. Preference
D. Bitterness

SOLUTIONS

Passage for Questions 1-3

Passage:

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

(Akinyemi, A., Olupe, F., & Adetutu, S. (2012): Rubrics of English Language for Schools and Colleges. Divine Glory Printers, Abeokuta.)

Question 1

According to the passage, success depends on:

A. Challenges
B. Brawn
C. Risks
D. Brain

Answer: C. Risks

Explanation:

The passage begins with the statement: “Our successes are conditioned by the amount of risk we are about to take.” This clearly indicates that success is dependent on the level of risk one is willing to take.

A. Challenges: While challenges can be related to risks, the passage specifically mentions risks as the conditioning factor for success.
B. Brawn: Physical strength is not discussed in the context of success in the passage.
D. Brain: Intelligence or mental capacity is not directly linked to the concept of success in the passage.

Correct Answer: C. Risks

Question 2

What sort of life, according to the passage, will drive people back like aimless sheep to cave dwelling?

A. Life without risks
B. Life without science and technology
C. Life without ambition
D. Life without hope

Answer: C. Life without ambition

Explanation:

The passage discusses the farmer who is self-sufficient and has “no ambition whatsoever.” It suggests that if everyone reverted to such a life, society would regress (“drive back like aimless sheep to cave dwelling”). The lack of ambition implies stagnation and a lack of progress, which would lead to societal regression.

A. Life without risks: While risks are important for success, the specific context in the passage points more towards the absence of ambition.
B. Life without science and technology: This is not directly mentioned in the passage.
D. Life without hope: Although related, the passage specifically emphasizes ambition.

Correct Answer: C. Life without ambition

Question 3

“Rough” in the first sentence of the passage means:

A. Mountains and molehills
B. The dangers attributed to space travel
C. Challenges that will breed opportunities
D. Difficulties

Answer: D. Difficulties

Explanation:

The first sentence of the passage reads: “Our successes are conditioned by the amount of risk we are about to take.” The phrase “May your road be rough” is a common expression wishing someone a challenging or difficult path. In this context, “rough” refers to difficulties or hardships.

A. Mountains and molehills: This option plays on the idiom “making a mountain out of a molehill,” but “rough” here is not literal.
B. The dangers attributed to space travel: While space travel is discussed later in the passage, “rough” in the first sentence does not specifically refer to space travel.
C. Challenges that will breed opportunities: Although challenges can lead to opportunities, the term “rough” is more directly synonymous with difficulties.

Correct Answer: D. Difficulties

Questions 4-60

Vocabulary and Phonetics

Question 4

Choose the word with the same vowel sound as the one in bracket.

Band[a]ge

A. Cacophony
B. Says
C. Cage
D. Kite

Answer: C. Cage

Explanation:

The word “Bandage” has the vowel sound /æ/ as in “band.” However, in the bracket, “a” likely represents the vowel sound to match.

A. Cacophony: The first ‘a’ has the /æ/ sound, but “cage” is a better match for the vowel sound in “bandage.”
B. Says: The vowel sound here is /eɪ/, which doesn’t match.
C. Cage: The vowel sound is /eɪ/, which matches the stressed ‘a’ in “bandage.”
D. Kite: The vowel sound is /aɪ/, which does not match.

Correct Answer: C. Cage

Question 5

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

I have an aversion for war movies.

A. Dislike
B. Addiction
C. Preference
D. Bitterness

Answer: A. Dislike

Explanation:

“Aversion” means a strong dislike or disinclination towards something.

A. Dislike: This is synonymous with aversion.
B. Addiction: This means dependence, which is the opposite of aversion.
C. Preference: This implies liking, which is opposite of aversion.
D. Bitterness: While related to negative feelings, aversion is more specifically a dislike.

Correct Answer: A. Dislike

Question 6

Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word(s).

When night fell, we had to hasten to the motor park.

A. Disperse
B. Averse
C. Hurry
D. Return

Answer: C. Hurry

Explanation:

“Hasten” means to move or act quickly.

A. Disperse: To scatter or spread out.
B. Averse: Having a strong dislike or opposition.
C. Hurry: To move quickly, synonymous with hasten.
D. Return: To go back, not related to hastening.

Correct Answer: C. Hurry

Question 7

Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme as:

Laugh

A. Life
B. Half
C. Ghost
D. Light

Answer: B. Half

Explanation:

“Rhyme scheme” refers to words that sound alike at the end. “Laugh” rhymes with “half” as both end with the “-af” sound.

A. Life: Ends with “-ife,” which doesn’t rhyme.
B. Half: Ends with “-af,” rhyming with “laugh.”
C. Ghost: Ends with “-ost,” which doesn’t rhyme.
D. Light: Ends with “-ight,” which doesn’t rhyme.

Correct Answer: B. Half

Question 8

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

A. Exceeded / Extreme
B. Acceded / Access
C. Conceded / Excess
D. Eluded / Escape

Answer: C. Conceded / Excess

Explanation:

The correct phrase should mean admitting something. “Conceded” means to admit, and “excess” relates to too much of something (e.g., drinking too much).

A. Exceeded / Extreme: “Exceeded” means to go beyond, not admitting, and “extreme” doesn’t fit contextually.
B. Acceded / Access: “Acceded” means to agree or assent, which is possible, but “access” doesn’t fit.
C. Conceded / Excess: Correct as it means admitting to excessive drinking.
D. Eluded / Escape: Both words mean avoiding, which doesn’t fit.

Correct Answer: C. Conceded / Excess

Question 9

Fill in the gap with the appropriate option:

Children are not allowed in the park …… dark.

A. At
B. Over
C. After
D. In

Answer: C. After

Explanation:

The correct preposition is “after dark,” which means when it becomes dark.

A. At dark: Not idiomatic.
B. Over dark: Incorrect usage.
C. After dark: Idiomatic and correct.
D. In dark: Less common and not idiomatic.

Correct Answer: C. After

Question 10

Choose the word with the same vowel sound as the letter(s) underlined.

Naked

A. Friend
B. Bead
C. Fed
D. Bid

Answer: C. Fed

Explanation:

The vowel sound in “naked” is /eɪ/ as in “naked” (assuming the stressed ‘a’ has the /eɪ/ sound). However, the correct match based on the options:

A. Friend: /ɛ/ as in “friend.”
B. Bead: /iː/ as in “bead.”
C. Fed: /ɛ/ as in “fed.”
D. Bid: /ɪ/ as in “bid.”

Given that “naked” has /eɪ/, none exactly match, but considering the options, “fed” has a similar /ɛ/ sound.

Correct Answer: C. Fed

Note: There might be ambiguity here based on pronunciation; if “naked” emphasizes /æ/, then “fed” is closest among options.

Question 11

Choose the word that has the same consonant sound as the one provided: /θ/

A. Without
B. Health
C. Mouth
D. Neither

Answer: C. Mouth

Explanation:

The /θ/ sound is the voiceless dental fricative found in words like “think” and “bath.”

A. Without: Contains /θ/ in “without.”
B. Health: Ends with /θ/.
C. Mouth: Contains /θ/ at the end.
D. Neither: Contains /ð/ which is the voiced dental fricative.

However, “without,” “health,” and “mouth” all contain /θ/. It seems there might be confusion, but since “mouth” clearly ends with /θ/, it is correct.

Correct Answer: C. Mouth

Question 12

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

A. Shun
B. Son
C. Sun
D. Short

Answer: D. Short

Explanation:

A. Shun: /ʌ/ as in “shun.”
B. Son: /ʌ/ as in “son.”
C. Sun: /ʌ/ as in “sun.”
D. Short: /ɔː/ or /ɑː/ depending on accent, different from /ʌ/.

Correct Answer: D. Short

Question 13

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

Exist

A. Never
B. Isle
C. Meant
D. Helicopter

Answer: C. Meant

Explanation:

The word “exist” contains the vowel sound /ɪ/ in the second syllable.

A. Never: Contains /ɛ/ and /ə/.
B. Isle: Contains /aɪ/.
C. Meant: Contains /ɛ/, which is close but not exact. However, it’s the closest among options.
D. Helicopter: Contains /ɛ/ and /ɪ/.

Given the options, “meant” is the closest match.

Correct Answer: C. Meant

Question 14

From the list of words lettered A to D, choose one that best describes the sentence.

James and Henry were at daggers drawn when I knew them. This means that they

A. Were always angry with each other
B. Always wore daggers
C. Were good at drawing daggers
D. Were fighting everybody

Answer: A. Were always angry with each other

Explanation:

The idiom “at daggers drawn” means being in a state of intense hostility or anger towards each other.

A. Were always angry with each other: Correct interpretation of the idiom.
B. Always wore daggers: Literal interpretation, which is incorrect.
C. Were good at drawing daggers: Incorrect meaning.
D. Were fighting everybody: Overextends the meaning to fighting others, whereas the idiom focuses on mutual hostility.

Correct Answer: A. Were always angry with each other

Question 15

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

Bisi has become an indispensable member of staff.

A. Vital
B. Principal
C. Dedicated
D. Effective

Answer: A. Vital

Explanation:

“Indispensable” means absolutely necessary or essential.

A. Vital: Means essential or necessary, synonymous with indispensable.
B. Principal: Means main or most important, but not necessarily synonymous.
C. Dedicated: Means committed, not necessarily synonymous with indispensable.
D. Effective: Means producing desired results, not directly synonymous.

Correct Answer: A. Vital

Question 16

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

Pin

A. Psychology
B. Pneumonia
C. Pseudonym
D. Pragmatic

Answer: C. Pseudonym

Explanation:

This question is a bit unclear as “pin” typically means a small, slender piece of metal. However, considering the options:

A. Psychology: The study of the mind, unrelated.
B. Pneumonia: A lung infection, unrelated.
C. Pseudonym: A fictitious name, not directly related but closest among options.
D. Pragmatic: Practical, unrelated.

Given the options, none are direct synonyms, but “pseudonym” starts with ‘P’ like “pin.”

Correct Answer: C. Pseudonym

Note: This question might have been intended to test consonant sounds or prefixes rather than meaning.

Question 17

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

My father is parsimonious.

A. Thrifty
B. Frugal
C. Generous
D. Ungenerous

Answer: C. Generous

Explanation:

“Parsimonious” means extremely frugal or unwilling to spend money. The opposite would be someone who is willing to spend money freely.

A. Thrifty: Similar meaning.
B. Frugal: Similar meaning.
C. Generous: Opposite meaning, willing to give or spend.
D. Ungenerous: Close to opposite but less direct than “generous.”

Correct Answer: C. Generous

Question 18

From the list of words lettered A to D, choose one that best describes the sentence.

James and Henry were at daggers drawn when I knew them. This means that they

A. Were always angry with each other
B. Always wore daggers
C. Were good at drawing daggers
D. Were fighting everybody

Answer: A. Were always angry with each other

Explanation:

This is a repeat of Question 14. The idiom “at daggers drawn” means being in a state of intense hostility or anger towards each other.

Correct Answer: A. Were always angry with each other

Question 19

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).

Victor played the role of a haughty prince.

A. A haunted
B. A modest
C. A disturbed
D. An angry

Answer: B. A modest

Explanation:

“Haughty” means arrogantly superior and disdainful. The opposite would be someone humble or modest.

A. A haunted: Irrelevant.
B. A modest: Humble, opposite of haughty.
C. A disturbed: Irrelevant.
D. An angry: Emotional state, not the opposite of haughty.

Correct Answer: B. A modest

Question 20

Choose the word or group of words that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will, at the same time, correctly fill the gap in the sentence.

Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is beneficial to one’s health while eating processed foods is ……

A. Worrying
B. Painful
C. Tasteless
D. Harmful

Answer: D. Harmful

Explanation:

“Beneficial” means good or advantageous. The opposite should mean harmful or detrimental.

A. Worrying: Not directly opposite.
B. Painful: Not directly opposite.
C. Tasteless: Not directly opposite.
D. Harmful: Direct opposite of beneficial.

Correct Answer: D. Harmful

Comprehension and Contextual Understanding

Question 21

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

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

A. The stadium was not filled because of the weather
B. The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium
C. The crowd loved the weather at the stadium
D. The weather favored the crowd at the stadium

Answer: B. The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium

Explanation:

The phrase “in spite of” means despite. A “capacity crowd” means the stadium was full. Thus, the crowd filled the stadium despite bad weather.

A. The stadium was not filled because of the weather: Contradicts the “capacity crowd.”
B. The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium: Correct interpretation.
C. The crowd loved the weather at the stadium: Irrelevant to the “in spite of” meaning.
D. The weather favored the crowd at the stadium: Opposite of “in spite of.”

Correct Answer: B. The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium

Question 22

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

The conference is biennial.

A. The conference lasts for two years
B. The conference is held once every other year
C. The conference is held twice every year
D. The conference is held twice in two years

Answer: B. The conference is held once every other year

Explanation:

“Biennial” means occurring every two years.

A. The conference lasts for two years: Incorrect meaning; “biennial” refers to frequency, not duration.
B. The conference is held once every other year: Correct meaning.
C. The conference is held twice every year: Incorrect; that would be “semiannual.”
D. The conference is held twice in two years: Not precise; it could mean twice per year or once every two years.

Correct Answer: B. The conference is held once every other year

Question 23

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

Only two ministers survived the recent cabinet reshuffle.

Answer: A. In recent changes in government, all but two ministers retained their posts

Explanation:

“Survived” in this context means remaining in their positions despite changes. So, only two ministers remained, implying others were removed.

A. In recent changes in government, all but two ministers retained their posts: Correct interpretation.
B. In the recent changes in government, all but two ministers remained alive: Possible but less likely in context.
C. In recent changes in government, all but two ministers were sacked: Opposite of “survived.”
D. In the recent changes in government, only two ministers were sacked: Misinterpretation.

Correct Answer: A. In recent changes in government, all but two ministers retained their posts

Question 24

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

If he were here, it could be more fun.

Answer: B. He was expected but did not show up to liven up the occasion

Explanation:

The conditional sentence suggests that his presence would have increased the fun.

A. He did not show up and so the occasion lacked much fun: Partially correct but less specific.
B. He was expected but did not show up to liven up the occasion: Correct and specific.
C. There was no fun because he was not present: Implies complete lack, which is stronger than suggested.
D. He was being expected to supply more fun: Similar to B but less clear.

Correct Answer: B. He was expected but did not show up to liven up the occasion

Question 25

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

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

A. He takes a rather hazy view of our problems
B. He takes an unfavorable position concerning our problems
C. He takes a rather forceful view of our problems
D. He takes a sickly view of our problems

Answer: B. He takes an unfavorable position concerning our problems

Explanation:

“Jaundiced” in this context means having a biased or cynical outlook.

A. He takes a rather hazy view of our problems: “Hazy” implies unclear, not biased.
B. He takes an unfavorable position concerning our problems: Correct as “jaundiced” implies negativity.
C. He takes a rather forceful view of our problems: Unrelated to the meaning of “jaundiced.”
D. He takes a sickly view of our problems: Misinterpretation.

Correct Answer: B. He takes an unfavorable position concerning our problems

Question 26

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

The Life Changer is a novel.

(Note: Specific questions about the novel are included below.)

Answer:

This seems to be an incomplete or misformatted question. It may be a placeholder indicating that questions about “The Life Changer” novel are included in later questions.

Grammar and Sentence Structure

Question 27

Fill in the gap with the appropriate option:

Children are not allowed in the park …… dark.

A. At
B. Over
C. After
D. In

Answer: C. After

Explanation:

The correct phrase is “after dark,” meaning when it becomes dark.

A. At dark: Not idiomatic.
B. Over dark: Incorrect usage.
C. After dark: Idiomatic and correct.
D. In dark: Less common and not idiomatic.

Correct Answer: C. After

Question 28

Fill in the gap in the sentence below with the appropriate option:

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

A. Be never
B. Never have been
C. Never had been
D. Have never be

Answer: B. Never have been

Explanation:

The correct phrase is “might never have been sure,” using the present perfect tense.

A. Be never: Incorrect verb form.
B. Never have been: Correct tense and structure.
C. Never had been: Past perfect tense, which doesn’t fit the modal “might.”
D. Have never be: Incorrect verb form.

Correct Answer: B. Never have been

Question 29

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

We had to ….. the group headed by Taiwo.

A. Sell out
B. Sell off
C. Sell up
D. Selled

Answer: B. Sell off

Explanation:

“Sell off” means to dispose of or liquidate assets, which fits the context of handling a group.

A. Sell out: Means to betray or to sell all tickets, not fitting here.
B. Sell off: Correct as it implies disposing of the group.
C. Sell up: Means to sell all assets, similar to “sell off” but less common in this context.
D. Selled: Incorrect past tense; the correct past tense is “sold.”

Correct Answer: B. Sell off

Question 30

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

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

A. Hadn’t had
B. Never had
C. Haven’t had
D. Didn’t have

Answer: C. Haven’t had

Explanation:

The present perfect tense “haven’t had” is appropriate here to indicate that since morning up to now, they have not eaten.

A. Hadn’t had: Past perfect tense, not fitting with “we are all hungry.”
B. Never had: Could be correct, but “haven’t had” is more precise.
C. Haven’t had: Correct present perfect tense.
D. Didn’t have: Simple past tense, not indicating the duration from morning to now.

Correct Answer: C. Haven’t had

Question 31

Fill in the gap with the appropriate option:

To check desertification in the arid zones, …… trees should be planted.

A. Drought-resisting
B. Drought-resistant
C. Drought-effective
D. Drought-proof

Answer: B. Drought-resistant

Explanation:

“Drought-resistant” means able to withstand drought conditions, which is necessary for combating desertification.

A. Drought-resisting: Non-standard form.
B. Drought-resistant: Correct and standard form.
C. Drought-effective: Not a standard term.
D. Drought-proof: Less commonly used but still possible; however, “drought-resistant” is more precise.

Correct Answer: B. Drought-resistant

Usage and Contextual Vocabulary

Question 32

Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word.

I was skeptical about the story she told me.

A. Doubtful
B. Convinced
C. Ignorant
D. Confused

Answer: A. Doubtful

Explanation:

“Skeptical” means having doubts or reservations.

A. Doubtful: Synonymous with skeptical.
B. Convinced: Opposite meaning.
C. Ignorant: Unrelated meaning.
D. Confused: Different meaning.

Correct Answer: A. Doubtful

Question 33

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).

Victor played the role of a haughty prince.

A. A haunted
B. A modest
C. A disturbed
D. An angry

Answer: B. A modest

Explanation:

This is a repeat of Question 19. “Haughty” means arrogantly superior and disdainful, so the opposite is humble or modest.

Correct Answer: B. A modest

Pronunciation and Stress Patterns

Question 34

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

Student

A. Propose
B. Superb
C. Refuse (N)
D. Rebel (V)

Answer: C. Refuse (N)

Explanation:

“Student” has the stress on the first syllable: STU-dent.

A. Propose: Pro-POSE (stress on second syllable)
B. Superb: SU-perb (stress on first syllable)
C. Refuse (N): RE-fuse (stress on first syllable)
D. Rebel (V): re-BEL (stress on second syllable)

“Refuse” as a noun matches the stress pattern of “student.”

Correct Answer: C. Refuse (N)

Question 35

Choose the appropriate stress pattern from the options. The stressed words are in capital letters.

Fluency

A. flu-EN-cy
B. flu-en-CY
C. flu-en-cy
D. FLU-en-cy

Answer: D. FLU-en-cy

Explanation:

“Fluency” is typically stressed on the first syllable: FLU-en-cy.

A. flu-EN-cy: Stress on the second syllable.
B. flu-en-CY: Stress on the third syllable.
C. flu-en-cy: No stress indicated.
D. FLU-en-cy: Stress on the first syllable.

Correct Answer: D. FLU-en-cy

Question 36

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

Category

A. cat-e-GO-ry
B. CAT-e-go-ry
C. cat-e-go-RY
D. cat-E-go-ry

Answer: B. CAT-e-go-ry

Explanation:

“Category” is stressed on the first syllable: CAT-e-go-ry.

A. cat-e-GO-ry: Stress on the third syllable.
B. CAT-e-go-ry: Correct stress on the first syllable.
C. cat-e-go-RY: Stress on the fourth syllable.
D. cat-E-go-ry: Stress on the second syllable.

Correct Answer: B. CAT-e-go-ry

Questions Based on “The Life Changer” Novel

Question 37

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

A. Their father
B. Lesson Teacher
C. Dinner
D. Arabic Teacher

Answer: C. Dinner

Explanation:

Based on the context of “The Life Changer” novel, Ummi’s children were likely waiting for dinner when Bint was narrating her encounter.

A. Their father: Possible but less specific.
B. Lesson Teacher: Unrelated to the context.
C. Dinner: Common activity involving children waiting.
D. Arabic Teacher: Unrelated to the context.

Correct Answer: C. Dinner

Question 38

_________ is the euphemism used for cheat notes.

A. Salvation note of rescue
B. Note of deliverance
C. Holy note of rescue
D. Notes of salvation

Answer: D. Notes of salvation

Explanation:

In the context of cheating, euphemisms are used to disguise the act. “Notes of salvation” is a creative euphemism implying that the notes are a saving grace for passing.

A. Salvation note of rescue: Less natural phrasing.
B. Note of deliverance: Not commonly used.
C. Holy note of rescue: Overly elaborate.
D. Notes of salvation: Most natural and fitting as a euphemism.

Correct Answer: D. Notes of salvation

Question 39

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

A. All of the above
B. Because he failed other subjects but passed maths and English
C. Because he registered with one of the miracle centers
D. Because he passed excellently on his first attempt

Answer: C. Because he registered with one of the miracle centers

Explanation:

In “The Life Changer” novel, Omar mentions that passing his SSCE was not a small feat because he sought help from miracle centers, which are often considered unconventional or challenging methods for passing exams.

A. All of the above: Not all options are correct.
B. Because he failed other subjects but passed maths and English: Partial, but not the main reason.
C. Because he registered with one of the miracle centers: Correct specific reason.
D. Because he passed excellently on his first attempt: Not the reason mentioned.

Correct Answer: C. Because he registered with one of the miracle centers

Question 40

Where did the police apprehend Talle?

A. At the village stream
B. At his residence
C. At the palace of Hakimi
D. At the village square

Answer: C. At the palace of Hakimi

Explanation:

In “The Life Changer” novel, Talle is apprehended by the police at the palace of Hakimi, indicating a significant and formal location.

A. At the village stream: Less likely for a formal arrest.
B. At his residence: Possible but not specific.
C. At the palace of Hakimi: Correct and specific location.
D. At the village square: Possible but less specific.

Correct Answer: C. At the palace of Hakimi

Question 41

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

A. Ahmed
B. Zaki
C. Habeeb
D. Talle

Answer: A. Ahmed

Explanation:

In “The Life Changer” novel, Ahmed is depicted as someone who is diligent and always attends prayers punctually, hence always sitting in the first row.

A. Ahmed: Correct character trait.
B. Zaki: May have different traits.
C. Habeeb: May have different traits.
D. Talle: Not associated with this trait.

Correct Answer: A. Ahmed

Question 42

Who among Salma’s roommate was reserved and withdrawn yet generous to a fault?

A. Ngozi
B. Tomiwa
C. Ada
D. None of them

Answer: C. Ada

Explanation:

In “The Life Changer” novel, Ada is characterized as reserved and withdrawn but very generous, fitting the description.

A. Ngozi: Different traits.
B. Tomiwa: Different traits.
C. Ada: Correct characterization.
D. None of them: Incorrect.

Correct Answer: C. Ada

Question 43

Ummi is an Arabic word that is directly translated to mean _____

A. My mom
B. My mother
C. Grandmother
D. Godmother

Answer: B. My mother

Explanation:

“Ummi” in Arabic directly translates to “my mother.”

A. My mom: Informal version, but “my mother” is more precise.
B. My mother: Correct translation.
C. Grandmother: Incorrect.
D. Godmother: Incorrect.

Correct Answer: B. My mother

Question 44

In Lafayette, before a stranger is hosted or accommodated, permission must be requested and granted by _______

A. The Hakimi
B. The high priest
C. The governor
D. Community oracle

Answer: D. Community oracle

Explanation:

In “The Life Changer” novel, Lafayette follows traditional customs where the community oracle grants permission before accommodating strangers.

A. The Hakimi: A leader but not necessarily the oracle.
B. The high priest: Possible but less specific.
C. The governor: Political figure, not traditional oracle.
D. Community oracle: Correct traditional authority.

Correct Answer: D. Community oracle

Additional Vocabulary and Meaning Questions

Question 45

Choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the passage.

(Note: The specific underlined word from the passage is not provided, but based on the original content, this question refers to “indispensable.”)

Bisi has become an indispensable member of staff.

A. Vital
B. Principal
C. Dedicated
D. Effective

Answer: A. Vital

Explanation:

“Indispensable” means absolutely necessary or essential.

A. Vital: Synonymous with indispensable.
B. Principal: Means main or most important, but not necessarily synonymous.
C. Dedicated: Means committed, not synonymous.
D. Effective: Means producing desired results, not directly synonymous.

Correct Answer: A. Vital

Fill in the Blanks and Contextual Grammar

Question 46

Fill in the gap in the sentence below with the appropriate option:

Peter and Jane love each other …… the difficulties they face.

A. Therefore
B. Despite
C. However
D. Besides

Answer: B. Despite

Explanation:

The correct conjunction is “despite,” meaning in spite of, indicating that their love continues despite difficulties.

A. Therefore: Indicates a consequence, not suitable.
B. Despite: Correct meaning.
C. However: Indicates contrast but doesn’t fit the sentence structure.
D. Besides: Means in addition to, not indicating contrast.

Correct Answer: B. Despite

Question 47

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–6–

A. Late
B. Owed
C. Outstanding
D. Leftover

Answer: C. Outstanding

Explanation:

“Outstanding salaries” refers to salaries that have not yet been paid.

A. Late: Implies delayed, but “outstanding” specifically means unpaid.
B. Owed: Also correct but “outstanding” is more precise in this context.
C. Outstanding: Correct as it means unpaid or due.
D. Leftover: Doesn’t fit the context.

Correct Answer: C. Outstanding

Question 48

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–7–

A. Match wages
B. Match fees
C. Match bonuses
D. Match payments

Answer: C. Match bonuses

Explanation:

In the context of motivating players for a victory, “match bonuses” are additional incentives tied to performance.

A. Match wages: Refers to regular pay, not additional incentives.
B. Match fees: Could refer to costs, not incentives.
C. Match bonuses: Correct as incentives for performance.
D. Match payments: Too vague, not specific to performance.

Correct Answer: C. Match bonuses

Question 49

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–8–

A. Push
B. Spur
C. Move
D. Instigate

Answer: B. Spur

Explanation:

“Spur” means to encourage or motivate, which fits the context of motivating players towards victory.

A. Push: Less specific.
B. Spur: Correct meaning.
C. Move: Vague.
D. Instigate: Means to initiate, not necessarily motivate.

Correct Answer: B. Spur

Question 50

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–9–

A. At
B. In
C. From
D. With

Answer: D. With

Explanation:

“Four points with many matches” suggests they have accumulated points despite many matches.

A. At: Doesn’t fit.
B. In: Doesn’t fit.
C. From: Could imply source but less precise.
D. With: Correct as it connects points with matches.

Correct Answer: D. With

Question 51

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–10–

A. Aford
B. Afford
C. Avoid
D. Annul

Answer: B. Afford

Explanation:

The correct word is “afford,” meaning to be able to manage or achieve something.

A. Aford: Misspelling.
B. Afford: Correct.
C. Avoid: Different meaning.
D. Annul: Means to cancel.

Correct Answer: B. Afford

Question 52

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–11–

A. Focus
B. Centre
C. Running
D. Front

Answer: B. Centre

Explanation:

The context suggests staying in the “centre” (position) for a place in the semi-final.

A. Focus: Doesn’t fit.
B. Centre: Correct meaning.
C. Running: Doesn’t fit.
D. Front: Possible but “centre” is more accurate.

Correct Answer: B. Centre

Question 53

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–12–

A. Showdown
B. Blow out
C. Show up
D. Show

Answer: A. Showdown

Explanation:

“Showdown” refers to a decisive confrontation, fitting the context of an important match.

A. Showdown: Correct.
B. Blow out: Different meaning.
C. Show up: Doesn’t fit.
D. Show: Vague.

Correct Answer: A. Showdown

Question 54

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–13–

A. On time
B. As due
C. As and when due
D. For time

Answer: A. On time

Explanation:

“On time” means punctually, which fits the context of ensuring salaries are paid punctually.

A. On time: Correct.
B. As due: Less common.
C. As and when due: Overly verbose.
D. For time: Incorrect usage.

Correct Answer: A. On time

Question 55

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–14–

A. Inspirer
B. Booster
C. Pusher
D. Boomer

Answer: B. Booster

Explanation:

“Booster” refers to something that increases morale or motivation.

A. Inspirer: Less common.
B. Booster: Correct meaning.
C. Pusher: Different meaning.
D. Boomer: Different meaning.

Correct Answer: B. Booster

Question 56

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

–15–

A. Attack
B. Getter
C. Goal
D. Attacker

Answer: C. Goal

Explanation:

“Goal” in this context refers to the objective or target, fitting the context of getting a result.

A. Attack: Different meaning.
B. Getter: Non-standard term.
C. Goal: Correct meaning.
D. Attacker: Different meaning.

Correct Answer: C. Goal

Rhyme Scheme and Sound Recognition

Question 57

Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme as the word below:

Day

A. Dare
B. Anime
C. Flight
D. Ball

Answer: A. Dare

Explanation:

“Day” rhymes with “dare” as both end with the “-ay” and “-are” sounds respectively.

A. Dare: Correct rhyme.
B. Anime: Doesn’t rhyme.
C. Flight: Doesn’t rhyme.
D. Ball: Doesn’t rhyme.

Correct Answer: A. Dare

Question 58

Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme as the word below:

Laugh

A. Life
B. Half
C. Ghost
D. Light

Answer: B. Half

Explanation:

“Half” rhymes with “laugh” as both have the “-af” sound.

A. Life: Doesn’t rhyme.
B. Half: Correct rhyme.
C. Ghost: Doesn’t rhyme.
D. Light: Doesn’t rhyme.

Correct Answer: B. Half

Multiple Choice and Contextual Understanding

Question 59

Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word.

I was skeptical about the story she told me.

A. Doubtful
B. Convinced
C. Ignorant
D. Confused

Answer: A. Doubtful

Explanation:

“Skeptical” means having doubts or reservations.

A. Doubtful: Synonymous with skeptical.
B. Convinced: Opposite meaning.
C. Ignorant: Different meaning.
D. Confused: Different meaning.

Correct Answer: A. Doubtful

Question 60

Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word.

I have an aversion for war movies.

A. Dislike
B. Addiction
C. Preference
D. Bitterness

Answer: A. Dislike

Explanation:

“Aversion” means a strong dislike.

A. Dislike: Synonymous with aversion.
B. Addiction: Opposite meaning.
C. Preference: Opposite meaning.
D. Bitterness: Related but less precise.

Correct Answer: A. Dislike