WAEC - English Language (1989)

1
Instruction: Chose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word.
One of the armed robbers was as daring in his words at the stake as the other was
Answer
(D)
timid
2
Instruction: Chose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word.
His outspokenness contrasts with the ..... of the father.
Answer
(E)
taciturnity
3
Instruction: Chose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word.
It is curious how Bayo can be so carefree in his ways when his brother is so ...
Answer
(A)
meticulous
4
Instruction: Chose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word.
Personally, I give in rather easily when it comes to arguments, but Emeka will always... to his opinions
Answer
(B)
hold on
5
Instruction: Chose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word.
He intentionally threw the documents away and somebody ... burnt them
Answer
(C)
accidentally
6
Instruction: Chose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word.
The crops the farmer planted were .... by some naughty boys.
Answer
(E)
uprooted
7
Instruction: Chose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word.
The man refused to accept the offer of a job in the rural areas; he preferred one in the ...area
Answer
(B)
urban
8
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
The candidates were told that passing the examination wasn't a passport to getting an admission.
Answer
(A)
a guarantee of
9
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
She tried to throw dust in my eyes
Answer
(D)
mislead me
10
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
Despite the different economic measures taken by the government, the country is not yet out of the wood
Answer
(D)
free from difficulties
11
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
Our house swept the board in the inter-house sports competition.
Answer
(C)
was completely successful
12
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
The preacher advised those who lost their property in the fire outbreak that every cloud has a
silverlining
Answer
(E)
there ia a good side to all misfortunes
13
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
My father always advised me to take time by the forelock
Answer
(A)
use an opportunity promptly
14
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
Soyinka has made his mark in the literary world. 
Answer
(B)
become distinguished
15
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
The runners-up trophy which our school had won was cold comfort for all the efforts we made.
Answer
(E)
a poor consolation
16
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
The runners-up trophy which our school had won was cold comfort for all the efforts we made
Answer
(E)
a poor consolation
17
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
Amina used to be hand in glove with her boyfriend
Answer
(E)
be close relations with her boyfriend
18
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for the sentence.
Chika escaped the accident by a hair's breadth
Answer
(A)
narrowly
19
After each of the following sentences, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider appropriate for each sentence .
Chika escaped the accident by a hair's breadth
Answer
(A)
narrowly
20
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
The decision taken by the panel is irrevocable
Answer
(A)
irreversible
21
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
Death is inevitable for man
Answer
(A)
unavoidable
22
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
The superintendent was appalled by the attitude of some of the employees towards their work.
Answer
(C)
shocked
23
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
The lawyer's argument of the case was exhaustive
Answer
(D)
thorough
24
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
The suspect was made to walk in front of the anxious crowds
Answer
(D)
curious
25
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
The principal's orders are imperative.
Answer
(E)
necessary
26
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
It is absurd to suggest that Tunde should marry that saucy lady.
Answer
(E)
ridiculous
27
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
I am very proud to speak before this august assembly.
Answer
(E)
popular
28
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
She tried to settle the quarrel but the man remained obstinate to listen to her.
Answer
(C)
stubborn
29
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
Okon attempted to entice Eno with the promise of a handsome sum of money
Answer
(E)
tempt
30
From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
The monk lived an ascetic life in order to discipline himself.
Answer
(E)
an austere
31
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider appropriate for each sentence.
Despite their newness on the workers were remunerated rather handsomely. This means that
Answer
(D)
the sum paid out was quite attractive
32
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider appropriate for each sentence..
The plan to upgrade the dispensary to a general hospital did not materialize. This means that
Answer
(A)
the arrangement did not work out as wished
33
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider appropriate for each sentence.
When the principal was asked what his opinion was on the controversial issue, his reply was ambiguous. This means that the principal's reply was not
Answer
(D)
clear
34
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider appropriate for each sentence.
Even though Susan was the last in the examination, her result wasn't too different from what had been expected. This means that
Answer
(A)
her result was as expected
35
After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider appropriate for each sentence.
Despite their strangely unrefined behavior, the foreigners were given preferential treatment. This means that the foreigners were
Answer
(C)
well-treated despite their rudeness
36
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
Mrs. Adam''s purchased ....
Answer
(B)
an imported pure leather bag
37
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The students protested against the ....
Answer
(C)
thrice weekly sports practice
38
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
It was apparent that we were being ... by the heat as soon as the air conditioner was switched off
Answer
(B)
stifled
39
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The eldest son took a foolish decision which made him ... his claim to the additional chieftain title.
Answer
(D)
forefeit
40
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
Jumai's stay in the hotel afforded her....chance to do her writing
Answer
(A)
ample
41
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
If I ... what actually happened, I would have punished him.
Answer
(A)
had heard
42

From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.

It.... If the leader of the group had come with them

Answer
(C)
would have been better
43
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
It is time we ... for the party.
Answer
(B)
left
44
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The suspect ... when I entered the office.
Answer
(C)
was being questioned
45
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The president's speech ... at 7pm yesterday
Answer
(D)
was broadcast
46
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
You were punished because you ...last week without permission.
Answer
(A)
ought not to have travelled
47
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
It has been rough so far, ....?
Answer
(A)
hasn't it
48
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes each of the following sentences.
It has been rough so far, ....?
Answer
(A)
hasn't it
49
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The Minister say he is accountable ... the president, and nobody else.
Answer
(B)
to
50
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
Nobody was surprised that the thief was convicted....all the charges.
Answer
(C)
of
51
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The PTA meeting did not adjourn until it had discussed all the matters placed....it
Answer
(C)
before
52
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
My uncle is an expert ...Mechanical Engineering.
Answer
(B)
in
53
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
.....is the owner of this pair of scissors?
Answer
(A)
Who
54
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
My mother was pleased ... me when she learnt of my success.
Answer
(A)
with
55
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
Musa was disappointed and decided to take it ... Maryam
Answer
(D)
out on
56
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The students refused to appear before the ...panel set up to look into their demands.
Answer
(B)
five-man
57
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
He played...than anyone else.
Answer
(A)
worse
58
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
She can't sing ..as I had thought
Answer
(D)
as well
59
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
Tayo was very obstinate; the more his mother insisted ... willingly would he do anything.
Answer
(C)
the less
60
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
There was ... enough food to go around.
Answer
(A)
scarcely
61
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
That child... nearly caused an accident.
Answer
(C)
very
62
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The student did the assignment, but not ...the way i had expected.
Answer
(B)
quite
63
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
Osaro told members of his club that the match would kick ... at 4.30pm.
Answer
(B)
off
64
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
Ngozi....comes to see us now.
Answer
(D)
hardly ever
65
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
As the opposing parties would not agree, the peace meeting....in confusion.
Answer
(D)
broke up
66
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
Mallam Gana owns many...on his farm.
Answer
(B)
herds of cattle
67
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
I want to know your religious ....
Answer
(C)
beliefs
68
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
He runs....
Answer
(C)
rather too fast
69
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The previous assignment was ... for me.
Answer
(A)
much too difficult
70
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The TV set...was damaged last week has been taken to an electronics engineer.
Answer
(A)
which
71
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
My...house is by the side of the road
Answer
(A)
father-in-law's
72
From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the one that best completes the sentence.
The students were advised to look....difficult words in the dictionary.
Answer
(D)
up
73
In question numbered 72 above, choose the best option from letters A - D that best completes the gap
Answer
(D)
taken in
74
In question numbered 73 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(D)
suggest
75
In question numbered 74 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(E)
fond
76
In question numbered 75 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(D)
often
77
In question numbered 76 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(A)
data
78
In question numbered 77 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(D)
regular
79
In question numbered 78 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(C)
time
80
In question numbered 79 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(A)
rarely
81
In question numbered 80 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(C)
if
82
In question numbered 81 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(E)
closely
83
In question numbered 82 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(B)
discovered
84
In question numbered 83 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(C)
length and breadth
85
In question numbered 84 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(A)
amazingly
86
In question numbered 85 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(E)
peak
87
In question numbered 86 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(D)
advent
88
In question numbered 87 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(B)
exorbitant
89
In question numbered 88 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(D)
work on
90
In question numbered 89 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(E)
practicable
91
In question numbered 90 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(A)
cost
92
In question numbered 91 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(B)
area
93
In question numbered 92 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(C)
site
94
In question numbered 93 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(A)
thoroughly
95
In question numbered 94 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(C)
on
96
In question numbered 95 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(E)
used
97
In question numbered 96 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(B)
dug
98
In question numbered 97 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(D)
commences
99
In question numbered 98 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(A)
ensures
100
In question numbered 99 above, choose the best option from letters A - E that best completes the gap
Answer
(C)
standard