JAMB - English Language (2002 - No. 13)
Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s).
He gave an unsatisfactory excuse, but the boss swallowed it hook, line and sinker.
He gave an unsatisfactory excuse, but the boss swallowed it hook, line and sinker.
with a pinch of salt
completely
entirely
without mincing words
Explication
The underlined phrase "swallowed it hook, line and sinker" means "believed it completely without questioning."
To find the opposite meaning, we need an option that suggests doubt or skepticism. The phrase "with a pinch of salt" means "to be skeptical or not believe something entirely."