Use Of English 2005 Jamb Examination
Use Of English 2005 Jamb Examination
Question 11
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
The teacher recounted two events that were analogous with each other.
The teacher recounted two events that were analogous with each other.
The word analogous means 'similar' or 'comparable in certain respects'. The opposite of 'analogous' therefore is 'different' or 'dissimilar'. In the sentence, two events are described as being similar, so the opposite would be that they are not alike. Hence, 'different from' directly contrasts 'analogous', expressing a lack of similarity or comparability between the two events.
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Question 12
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
The principal was filled with scorn when we gave our reason for coming late.
The principal was filled with scorn when we gave our reason for coming late.
"Scorn" means a feeling of contempt or disdain, while "sympathy" means a feeling of understanding and compassion.Â
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Question 13
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
After fifty years, he could not find anyone who was contemporary with him at college.
After fifty years, he could not find anyone who was contemporary with him at college.
The term contemporary refers to someone who lived or existed at the same time as another person. The opposite would therefore be someone from a different time or generation, not existing at the same period. 'Strange to' best expresses this idea, since it implies no shared time or familiarity between the two individuals, thus serving as the direct opposite of 'contemporary'.
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Question 14
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
Idris gives me a sour look every time I pass by him.
Idris gives me a sour look every time I pass by him.
The word sour in this context means an unfriendly, unpleasant, or hostile facial expression. The opposite of this would be a pleasant or welcoming expression. Among the options, 'friendly' most appropriately conveys warmth and pleasantness, which contrasts directly with the negativity implied by 'sour'. Therefore, a 'friendly' look is the opposite of a 'sour' look.
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Question 15
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
The officer was given an invidious task?
The officer was given an invidious task?
The term invidious describes something likely to cause resentment, envy, or discomfort, such as an unpleasant or unfair duty. Its opposite would therefore describe something agreeable or enjoyable. 'Pleasant' fits this meaning perfectly as it expresses something satisfying and agreeable, unlike 'invidious', which carries a sense of distaste or hostility.
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Question 16
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
The views of the plateau are in stark contrast to the workaday cottages below.
The views of the plateau are in stark contrast to the workaday cottages below.
The term workaday means ordinary, dull, or unremarkable. The opposite would describe something exciting, beautiful, or attractive. The option 'beautiful and interesting' captures this sense of vibrancy and appeal, making it the opposite of something mundane or common. Hence, it best contrasts with 'workaday'.
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Question 17
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
The president can afford to dispense with some of his henchmen.
The president can afford to dispense with some of his henchmen.
The correct option opposite in meaning to "henchmen" is A. detractors, because henchmen are loyal followers, often with negative connotations of blind obedience, whereas detractors are people who oppose and criticize someone.Â
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Question 18
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word or phrase.
The judge did not grant the request that the witness should appear by proxy.
The judge did not grant the request that the witness should appear by proxy.
The phrase by proxy means being represented or acting through another person rather than appearing oneself. The opposite would thus be to appear physically or personally. 'Be present in person' conveys this meaning exactly, as it directly contrasts with being represented by someone else.
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Question 19
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
It would be difficult to defeat such a highly motivated team.
It would be difficult to defeat such a highly motivated team.
The word motivated means having enthusiasm, determination, or inspiration to act towards a goal. Its opposite would imply a lack of drive or interest. Among the options, 'very demoralized' best expresses this meaning, as it refers to being disheartened or losing confidence and motivation. Therefore, 'demoralized' contrasts directly with 'motivated'.
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Question 20
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
Asabe bought a glossy pair of shoes.
Asabe bought a glossy pair of shoes.
The word glossy means having a smooth, shiny surface that reflects light. The opposite of 'glossy' would therefore describe a texture that lacks smoothness and brightness. Among the options, 'rough and dull' captures both the lack of smoothness and shine, making it the most appropriate opposite expression.

