JAMB - English Language (1985 - No. 41)
In the question below choose the option nearest in meaning to the word underlined:
The principal advised the boy to come to grips with himself if he wanted to do well at the end of his course.
The principal advised the boy to come to grips with himself if he wanted to do well at the end of his course.
criticizied himself
master his difficulties
learn to be obedient
behave himself
fight with himself
Paliwanag
The phrase "come to grip with himself" suggests that the principal is advising the boy to confront and overcome his own challenges or difficulties in order to do well in his course. Therefore, "master his difficulties" best captures the intended meaning.