1988

JAMB Use of English 1988 past questions

258 questions from the 1988 JAMB UTME Use of English paper. Free, with answers where available.

Practice with CBT mock -> All Use of English years
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q1
The write of the passage felt isolated because
A
there were too many people
B
he was a new student in freedom university
C
there were too many new students
D
none of the many people around could help him.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q1
The writer of the passage felt isolated because
A
there were too many people
B
he was a new student in freedom university
C
there were too many new students
D
none of the many people around could help him
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q1
How would you describe shola's father?
A
a greedy boatman
B
an energetic but good for nothing man
C
a loving father who wants to safeguard the interest of his daughter
D
a talkative fool
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q2
The write says that the prospect was not cheerful because
A
no one could tell him how to get to Grant Hall
B
he had felt too elated when he gained admission into the university
C
there was no hope of getting out of his predicament
D
the other students were hostile.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q2
Which of the following is NOT true of the passage?
A
Shola did not approve of her father's behaviour towards the stranger
B
Shola's father could row the stranger to the islands alone had he so wished
C
Shola's father exaggerated the difficulties in order to raise his fee
D
Shola had recently been disturbed by the tide.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q2
The writer says that the prospect was not cheerful because
A
no one could tell him how to get to Grant Hall
B
he had felt too elated when he gained admission into the university
C
there was no hope of getting out of his predicament
D
the other students were hostile
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q3
In the passage, the darkness of ignorance refers to the
A
state of the writer before he found the notice board
B
ignorance of illiterates
C
ignorance of those who have not been to university
D
fact that he was a freshman.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q3
Which of the following is true of the stranger in the passage?
A
He was a proud and good looking man with a deep voice that annoyed Shola
B
He was familiar with the people of the islands
C
He was a fine gentleman in need of help
D
He was too proud to reciprocate Shola's love.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q3
In the passage, ‘the darkness of ignorance' refers to the
A
state of the writer before he found the notice board
B
ignorance of illiterates
C
ignorance of those who have not been to university
D
fact that he was a freshman
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q4
According to the passage the writers predicament was caused by
A
the writer himself
B
those who displayed the notices and perhaps the writer
C
the nature of the notice board and where it was placed
D
those who displayed the notices.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q4
‘Manoeuvre' in the passage means
A
shrewdness
B
cleverness
C
stupidity
D
strategy
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q4 OK Answer: B
According to the passage, the writer's predicament was caused by
A
the writer himself
B
those who displayed the notice and perhaps the writer
C
the nature of the notice board and where it was placed
D
those who displayed the notice
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q6 OK Answer: A
The passage says that
A
there are many skills of communication of which listening is one
B
the art of listening is the toughest of all communication skills
C
good listening depends on perfect function of the auditory organs
D
good listening needs formal training
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q6 OK Answer: A
The 1936 Olympic games was cited in the passage to show that sport can
A
lead to excessive hatred
B
create goodwill among nations
C
generate feelings of national prestige
D
make people meet on the battle field
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q7
Creative listening involves all the following EXCEPT
A
efficient concentration
B
making sure that what he speaker is saying is audible
C
that the listening must be able to think fast
D
that there must be a co-ordination of all the objectivefacilities.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q8 OK Answer: B
Creative listening implies all EXCEPT
A
a critical enterprise
B
an uncompromising rejection of the speaker's argument
C
some argument with the speaker
D
a great deal of discipline
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q8 OK Answer: B
Boxing is regarded as the worst game in the passage because
A
of the behavior of the boxers themselves
B
of the amount of ill-will that can be generated among spectators of different races
C
of the ill-will that can be generated by a game that demands strength from the competitors [PAGE 202]
D
is a game in which both players get hurt rather badly
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q9 OK Answer: A
The tone of the passage is
A
sermonizing
B
pleading
C
analytical
D
argumentative
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q9 OK Answer: A
Which of the following statements is TRUE according to the passage?
A
running, jumping and kicking a ball are tests of national virtue
B
at the national level, sports is frankly a mimic warfare
C
the most savage combative instincts are aroused by anyone who has played in a school football match
D
nations work themselves up because they tend to believe that6 sports are tests of national virtue
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q11 OK Answer: C
Select the most appropriate title for this passage
A
problem of learning a new language
B
problems of learning English as a separate subject
C
problems of working in English as a foreign language
D
difficulties with interacting in English
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q11 OK Answer: C
The snake was referred to as 'something strange' because the
A
movement of the snake along the gutter was slow and cautious
B
movement of the snake betrayed strange uneasiness and confusion
C
color of the snake's body was an unusual stream of flowing metal [PAGE 203]
D
environment in which the snake was found was unusual
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q12
The student begins to experience difficulties with English when
A
learning English with other subjects
B
learning English as a separate subject
C
his comprehension becomes less secure
D
using English as a medium of instruction.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q12 OK Answer: A
The student begins experiencing difficulties with English when
A
learning English with other subjects
B
learning English as a separate subject
C
his comprehension becomes less secure
D
using English as a medium of instruction
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q12 OK Answer: A
As the narrator watched the snake, his feelings changed to those of
A
anger and apathy
B
antipathy and perplexity
C
perplexity
D
angry bewilderment
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q13
The expression ‘his language often betrays him into dullness, coldness, or worst of all, rudeness' means that
A
his English language lets him down and he becomesdull, cold and rude
B
the way he uses the language gives one the i mpression that he is dull, cold or rude
C
he betrays his bad manners by using English badly
D
his dullness, coldness or rudeness betrays his bad manners in language use.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q13 OK Answer: C
The expression 'his language often betrays him into dullness, coldness, or worst of all, rudeness' means that
A
his English language lets him down and he becomes dull, cold and rude
B
the way he uses the language gives one the impression that he is dull, cold or rude
C
he betrays his bad manners by using English badly
D
his dullness, coldness or rudeness
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q13 OK Answer: C
The act of the snake was described as 'fatal' because the snake's attack was going to
A
be fatal to the plant
B
make the coiled body not to support itself upon the narrow ledge
C
result in the crippling of the snake
D
result in no possible recovery
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q14
The statement ‘instead of the student being in control of the language, the language seems now to be in control of the student' implies that the
A
writer is not serious, he is only being humorous
B
language can make the student behave like an Englishman
C
language can make the student behave rather badly
D
student should stop using the language so as not to be controlled by it.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q14 OK Answer: C
The statement 'instead of the student being in control of the language, the language seems now to be in control of the student' implies that the
A
writer is not serious; he is only being humorous
B
languages can make the student behave like an Englishman
C
language can make the student behave rather badly [PAGE 187]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q15 OK Answer: B
The most likely source of difficulty for the student working with English as a medium of instruction is
A
the newness of the subject matter in the texts being read
B
unknown items of grammar and vocabulary in the texts
C
the student's slow reading rate in his own subject
D
the tiring nature of working in a foreign language
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q15 OK Answer: B
The 'fight' between the plant and the snake was prompted
A
the plant
B
osun
C
the wind
D
the snake
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q16
In the passage, ‘manic pleasure' means
A
wicked pleasure
B
children pleasure
C
unlimited pleasure
D
human pleasure.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q16 OK Answer: C
In the passage 'manic pleasure' means
A
wicked pleasure
B
childish pleasure
C
unlimited pleasure
D
human pleasure
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q16 OK Answer: C
In the passage 'nightmare' means
A
a terrifying or deeply distressing dream
B
natural disasters
C
all those hazards which made life hideous
D
a curse
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q17
The expression ‘must kick it and make it collapse' in this context means
A
is forced to kick it and demolish it.
B
is obliged to kick it and make it collapse
C
cannot resist the urge to demolish it
D
ought to kick it and make it collapse
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q17 OK Answer: C
The expression 'must kick it and make it collapse' in this context means
A
is forced to kick it and demolish
B
is obliged to kick it and demolish it
C
cannot resist the urge to demolish it
D
ought to kick it and make it collapse
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q17 OK Answer: C
Natural disasters were regarded as a curse of the gods on mankind because man
A
had no satisfactory solution to natural disasters
B
had not learnt to till the soil sufficiently
C
was suffering from the woes pronounced on mankind by the gods
D
could not send reply to the gods
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q18 OK Answer: B
According to this passage, it gives the child great pleasure
A
for daddy to see the tower he has built
B
to destroy the tower himself
C
to see his tower accidentally destroyed
D
to be helped to destroy the tower
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q18 OK Answer: B
'But starvation still stares man in the face' means starvation
A
looks at the face of man
B
is inevitable to man
C
flies in the face of man
D
still afflicts man
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q19
How does the author try to explain this ‘destructive stage'?
A
It is the last stage in child development.
B
The child wants to displease his parents.
C
It grows out of the child's recent experiences of sudden falls.
D
The child is just going through a destructive stage.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q19 OK Answer: C
The working population engaged in agriculture cannot feed the teeming population sufficiently because
A
there are gaping mouths to be fed
B
they do not produce what they like to eat
C
there are not enough people engaged in tilling the soil
D
improved methods of agriculture have not brought about a significant increase in food production
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q21
According to the passage, the woman with half a dozen eggs in the market
A
is doing earnest business [PAGE 30]
B
comes purposely to enjoy herself
C
is like other traders in the market
D
does not like her husband at home.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q21 OK Answer: B
According to the passage, the woman with half a dozen of egg in the market
A
is doing earnest business
B
comes purposely to enjoy herself
C
is like other traders in the market
D
does not like her husband at home
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q22
‘An old goldsmith worked on his dying art' means that the
A
goldsmith's trade was no longer popular
B
goldsmith was old and might soon die
C
goldsmith knew well the art of dyeing
D
goldsmith now used copper filings.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q22 OK Answer: A
'An old goldsmith worked on his dying art' means that the
A
goldsmith's trade was no longer popular
B
goldsmith was old and might soon die
C
goldsmith knew well the art of dying
D
goldsmith now used copper filings
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q22 OK Answer: A
'Aggressive' in the passage means
A
militant
B
dissident
C
reactionary
D
revolutionary
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q23 OK Answer: C
Which of the following titles BEST reflects the content of the passage?
A
a market scene
B
trading in the market
C
an African market scene
D
an African shopping center
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q23 OK Answer: C
The central point being stressed in the passage is that
A
nuclear war is inevitable in the third world countries
B
nuclear war is imminent in the third world countries
C
a country does not have to be industrialized before being concerned with nuclear matters
D
the aggressive forces of the world are ready to carry the nuclear battle into the developing nations
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q24 OK Answer: B
Which of the following statements BEST illustrates the impression the writer has created about the market?
A
an old, timeless and scantily populated place
B
a place people come to for business or pleasure
C
an old, crowed and discarded place
D
a place for all types of wares and laughter [PAGE 189]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q24 OK Answer: B
According to the author, current world development points to
A
an exclusive destruction of the developing countries
B
a likely spread of nuclear calamity to the third world countries
C
nuclear exchange taking place in Africa, Asia and Latin America
D
a confrontation between the industrialized and the developing countries
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q25 OK Answer: C
Which of the following groups of items may be found for sale in the market?
A
motor-car tyres, eggs and gold trinkets
B
eggs, sandals and gold trinkles
C
country cloth, gold trinkets and sandals
D
country cloth, copper trinkles and eggs
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q25 OK Answer: C
From this passage, we learn that nuclear exchange in the northern hemisphere would be
A
inconceivable
B
inevitable
C
fatal to mankind
D
partially destructive In the question below choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) Underlined:
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q26 OK Answer: B
Our government is making determined efforts to eradicate illiteracy
A
compulsory
B
ineffective
C
innocent
D
unreliable [PAGE 190]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q26 OK Answer: B
The government is making concerted efforts at providing essential social facilities in the rural areas.
A
dissipated
B
unconcerned
C
unsuccessful
D
uncontrolled
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q27 OK Answer: C
Makerere University has a large intake of students each year
A
rejection
B
product
C
output
D
turn-out
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q27 OK Answer: C
The western allies frowned at their enemies indiscriminate bombing of their territory
A
impartial
B
selective
C
unprovoked
D
divided
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q28
Florence flogged the girl reluctantly.
A
eagerly
B
calmly
C
furiously
D
laboriously
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q28 OK Answer: A
Florence flogged the girl reluctantly
A
eagerly
B
calmy
C
furiously
D
laboriously
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q28 OK Answer: A
The girl is very intelligent, but her jokes are rather outrageous
A
offensive
B
courageous [PAGE 206]
C
pleasant
D
unwholesome
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q29
Sola's car is badly damaged; he has to look for an expert mechanic to fix it.
A
uneducated
B
amateurish
C
awkward
D
unscientific.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q29 OK Answer: B
Sola's car is badly damaged; he has to look for an expert mechanic to fix it.
A
uneducated
B
amateurish
C
awkward
D
unscientific
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q29 OK Answer: B
We cannot but talk about his invaluable contributions to the affairs of the society
A
worthless
B
costly
C
unrecognized
D
incalculable
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q30 OK Answer: D
Coastal plains are often very densely populated.
A
weakly
B
badly
C
rarely
D
sparsely
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q30 OK Answer: D
This fertility figure, of course, conceals wide individual variations among the people
A
attracts
B
covers
C
exposes
D
concludes
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q31
Wilfred was a mindless criminal.
A
strong
B
mindful
C
feeling
D
memorable.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q31 OK Answer: C
Wilfred was a mindless criminal
A
strong
B
mindful
C
feeling
D
memorable In the question below choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) Underlined:
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q31 OK Answer: C
Men living in an extended family know that they have to be responsible for the welfare of some other person's children
A
extensive
B
nuclear
C
neutral
D
contracted [PAGE 207] In the question below choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase(s) Underlined:
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q32
The judge blamed the plaintiff for misleading the court.
A
defendant
B
complainant
C
accused
D
prosecution.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q32 OK Answer: A
The judge blamed the plaintiff for misleading the court
A
defendant
B
complainant
C
accused
D
prosecution
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q32 OK Answer: A
The appearance of the pall-bearers was extremely fascinating
A
magnetic
B
unorganized
C
interesting
D
repulsive
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q33
The thieves vandalized the vault's lock.
A
repaired
B
arranged
C
serviced
D
actuated.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q33 OK Answer: A
The thieves vandalized the vault's lock
A
repaired
B
arranged
C
serviced
D
actuated
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q33 OK Answer: A
Many mines protested against the order to march into the coal pits
A
strut
B
amble
C
trudge
D
ramble
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q34
The demonstrators have refused to call off their action.
A
consolidate
B
start
C
resume
D
end.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q34 OK Answer: C
The demonstrators have refused to call off their action
A
consolidate
B
start
C
resume
D
end
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q34 OK Answer: C
The hasty action will bring nothing but discredit to them
A
honor
B
shame
C
reward
D
disgrace
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q35
The angry waves swallowed the boat.
A
gentle
B
unruffled
C
cool
D
serene.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q35 OK Answer: B
The angry waves swallowed the boat
A
gentle
B
unruffled
C
cool
D
serene
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q35 OK Answer: B
The man's health has deteriorated in the hospital
A
collapsed
B
improved
C
worsened
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q36
Ngozi and Ekaete were fast friends when we were in the secondary school.
A
friends who run very quickly together
B
friends who go without food for a long time together
C
friends who are not easily separated from each other
D
friends who spend too much time and energy on pleasure and excitement together
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q36 OK Answer: C
Ngozi and Ekaette were fast friends when we were in the secondary school
A
friends who run very quickly together
B
friends who go without food for a long time together
C
friends who are not easily separated from each other
D
friends who spend too much time and energy on pleasure and excitement together
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q36 OK Answer: C
The boss made a clean sweep of all old hands in the office
A
completely got rid
B
cleanly swept the office
C
made a quick change
D
made an adjustment
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q37
My son has just been rusticated from the university.
A
sent home to get his fees
B
sent home for misconduct
C
sent home to rest for sometime
D
sent home to become rustic
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q37 OK Answer: B
My son has just been rusticated from the university
A
sent home to get his fees
B
sent home for misconduct
C
sent home to rest for some time
D
sent home to become realistic
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q37 OK Answer: B
Her anxiety was apparent to everyone present at the ceremony
A
real
B
visible
C
transparent
D
unknown
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q38 OK Answer: C
All we need is a concerted effort to combat the epidemic
A
persistent
B
dramatic
C
joint
D
concentrated
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q38 OK Answer: C
Our experience on board the aircraft is nothing to write home about
A
not remarkable
B
not unpleasant
C
nobody's business
D
not a home affair
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q39
All we need is a concerted effort to combat the epidemic.
A
persistent
B
dramatic
C
joint
D
concentrated
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q39 OK Answer: C
Jimoh has cupboard love for Sidikatu
A
love that never fails [PAGE 191]
B
genuine love
C
love for what he wants from her
D
love that can fail in time of trouble
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q39 OK Answer: C
The rampage was organized and directed by the militant ones among the students
A
soldiers
B
rebellious ones
C
belligerent ones
D
commandoes
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q40 OK Answer: A
Yahaya hardly knows on which side his bread is buttered in the matter
A
where his interest lies
B
what he must do
C
where he should go
D
whom to contact for help
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q40 OK Answer: A
The governor advised his people to get off the beaten tracks in their approach to community matters
A
use the old roads
B
make the track better
C
find new ways
D
avoid beaten about the bush [PAGE 208]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q41
The preacher is under a cloud among the congregation.
A
out of favour
B
under observation
C
under weather
D
confused
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q41 OK Answer: A
The preacher is under a cloud among the congregation
A
out of favor
B
under observation
C
under weather
D
confused
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q41 OK Answer: A
It was their custom to keep an open house on Sundays
A
welcome all visitors
B
keep the shutters open
C
leave the house open
D
expose the whole house
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q42
The politician played to the gallery to win the election.
A
obeyed the people
B
sang a good song for the people
C
went to the gallery
D
went out of his way to appeal to the taste of the people.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q42 OK Answer: D
The politician played to the gallery to win the election
A
obeyed the people
B
sang a good song for the people
C
went to the gallery
D
went out of his way to appeal to the taste of the people
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q42 OK Answer: D
The president made a passionate appeal for calm
A
inflamed
B
disturbing
C
intense
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q43 OK Answer: A
The hefty warder came in and all the prisoners snuffed out their cigarettes
A
extinguished
B
put out
C
squeezed
D
put down
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q43 OK Answer: A
Mali stole the day's takings from the bakery.
A
receipts
B
collection
C
contributions
D
offerings
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q44
The popularity of the slogan is beginning to wane.
A
wear
B
slide
C
thin out
D
decline
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q44 OK Answer: D
The popularity of the slogan is beginning to wane
A
wear
B
slide
C
thin out
D
decline
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q44 OK Answer: D
You do not need to stutter in order to show your excitement
A
jump about
B
shout
C
sob
D
stammer
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q45
The policeman looked at the face of robber and saw tell-tale sign of a dyed-in-the-wool convict.
A
hardened
B
remorseless
C
heady
D
hardhearted
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q45 OK Answer: A
The policeman looked at the face of the robber and saw tell-tale signs of a dyed-in-the wool convict.
A
hardened
B
remorseless
C
heady
D
hardhearted [PAGE 192]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q45 OK Answer: A
what embarrasses is the stealthy way in which the new servant goes about his duties in the house
A
indolent
B
furtive
C
boisterous
D
agile
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q46
‘Marcus bears watching;' remarked Emperor Nero.
A
deserves
B
needs
C
favours
D
enjoys
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q46 OK Answer: B
'Marcus bears watching; remarked Emperor Nero.
A
deserves
B
needs
C
favors
D
enjoys
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q46 OK Answer: B
I have never been accustomed to seeing my brother in such a pensive mood
A
merry
B
infuriated
C
thoughtful
D
hostile
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q47
The senior perfect had to carry the can because he refused to identify the culprit
A
dispose the can of refuse
B
accept responsibility [PAGE 31]
C
be made one of the scape-goats
D
bear the brunt
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q47 OK Answer: B
The senior prefect had to carry the can because he refused to identify the culprit
A
dispose the can refuse
B
accept responsibility
C
be made one of the scape goats
D
bear the brunt
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q47 OK Answer: B
The administrator's apathy was soon noticed by all his subordinates.
A
indifference
B
kindness
C
concern
D
inefficiency
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q48
The senator had the habit of setting the cat among the pigeons whenever matters concerning his constituency came up for debate
A
illuminating issues that are not clear
B
monopolizing the discussion
C
making frequent interruptions in the nature of points of correction
D
introducing elements of controversy and confusion
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q48 OK Answer: D
The senior had the habit of setting the cat among the pigeon whenever matters concerning his constituency came up for debate
A
illuminating issues that are not clear
B
monopolizing the discussion
C
making frequent interruptions in the nature of points of correction
D
introducing elements of controversy and confusion
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q48 OK Answer: D
The way he handled the whole issue was rather despicable
A
disturbing
B
likeable
C
contemptible
D
frustrating
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q49 OK Answer: C
Adah has not been regular at lectures because she has been off color
A
gloomy
B
trying to hide her bleached skin
C
slightly sick
D
upset
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q49 OK Answer: C
The authenticity of the reporter's claims should be established before taking further actions on the matter
A
facts
B
source
C
evidence [PAGE 209]
D
genuineness
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q50 OK Answer: A
When the man lost his two sons in a motor accident, he cracked up
A
became broken-hearted
B
became inconsolable
C
became slightly deranged
D
became temperamental
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q50 OK Answer: A
After careful investigation, the police found no iota of truth in Ibrahim's allegations
A
quota
B
grain
C
evidence
D
statement
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q51 OK Answer: B
The news of his performance in the sessional examination has made Okechukwu crestfallen
A
highly irritable
B
dejected
C
elated
D
pompous [PAGE 193]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q51 OK Answer: B
The case was thrown out because the court lacked jurisdiction
A
jurors to help the judge
B
authority
C
prosecutors
D
appellate powers
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q52 OK Answer: B
The man rebuked his son severely, but his words seem to have cut on ice
A
been unconvincing
B
had no effect
C
not cooled the boy's temper
D
added insult to injury
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q52 OK Answer: B
The chief will launch the fund-raising appeal
A
make a speech at
B
eat his afternoon meal during
C
travel by boat
D
start off
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q53 OK Answer: D
The urban environment tends to form the nucleus of a common dialect.
A
setting
B
repository
C
cell
D
core
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q53 OK Answer: D
Sade has been employed. But she is unhappy because it is a run off the mill job
A
a boring
B
an exciting
C
a tiring
D
an ordinary
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q54 OK Answer: B
I shall be with you presently
A
now
B
in a moment
C
at present
D
for the time being
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q54 OK Answer: B
I would like to like to believe that this brilliant performance of yours is not just a flash in the pan
A
repeated occurrence
B
normal happening
C
flashy happening
D
chance occurrence [PAGE 210]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q55
The builder's taste reflected superflous grandeur
A
excellent
B
superlative
C
expensive
D
too much In question 56-100 choose the word(s) or phras which best fills the gap(s).
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q55 OK Answer: D
The builder's taste reflected superfluous grandeur
A
excellent
B
superlative
C
expensive
D
too much In the question below choose the word(s) or phrase(s) which best fills the gap(s).:
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q55 OK Answer: D
As the wedding day approached, the bride began to develop cold feet
A
fall sick
B
feel cold
C
be reluctant
D
become aggressive
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q56
The child's recent training has not been very effective, he is likely to … to his old habits.
A
revert
B
convert
C
reverse
D
revise
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q56 OK Answer: A
The child's recent training has not been very effective, he is likely to .... to his old habits
A
revert
B
convert
C
reverse
D
revise [PAGE 194]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q56 OK Answer: A
I told my brother to get the matter off his chest as soon as possible
A
give serious thought to the matter
B
say what he has been anxious to say
C
make a brief comment
D
state his point clearly
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q57
The students went on whispering in … of the teacher.
A
dishonour
B
disagreement
C
defiance
D
disobedience
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q57 OK Answer: C
The students went on whispering in .... of the teacher
A
dishonor
B
disagreement
C
defiance
D
disobedience
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q57 OK Answer: C
He has a big heart, but he is inept at following a witty conversation
A
large
B
huge
C
warm
D
fragile
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q58
You can never find Okwu; he is a very … person.
A
delusive
B
elusive
C
illusive
D
disceptive
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q58 OK Answer: B
You can never find Okwu; he is a very .... person
A
delusive
B
elusive
C
illusive
D
deceptive
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q58 OK Answer: B
The clerk refused to answer for the mistake made by the manager and his assistants
A
reply to
B
give an answer
C
accept responsibility
D
account for
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q59
You could see that: Akpan did not give theevidence …
A
honestly completely
B
complete honestly
C
honest completely
D
completely honestly
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q59 OK Answer: D
You could see that Akpan did not give his evidence ....
A
honestly completely
B
complete honestly
C
honest completely
D
completely honestly
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q59 OK Answer: D
Most of his observations were wide of the mark
A
comprehensible
B
irrelevant
C
pertinent
D
unacceptable
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q60
The suspect defrauded his … victims of large sums of money.
A
unsuspected
B
unsuspecting
C
unexpecting
D
unexpected
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q60 OK Answer: B
The suspect defrauded his ...... victims of large sums of money
A
unsuspected
B
unsuspecting
C
unexpecting
D
unexpected
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q60 OK Answer: B
I didn't think she could be so easily taken in by his pretenses
A
flattered
B
deceived
C
overcome
D
blackmailed
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q61
The … of the participating countries will hold a pre- conference on the eve of the conference.
A
Auditor Generals
B
Auditor General
C
Auditors General
D
Auditors Generals
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q61 OK Answer: C
The ... of the participating countries will hold a preconference on the eve of the conference.
A
Auditors Generals
B
Auditors General
C
Auditors generals
D
Auditors generals
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q61 OK Answer: C
Do you have the same aversion as I do for war films
A
bitterness
B
dislike
C
criticism
D
preference
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q62
The drummers struck their drums with great efforts, and the surging crowds of dancers … the grounds around the palace.
A
strutted/thumped
B
kicked/stamped
C
thumped/licked
D
stroke/thumped
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q62 OK Answer: A
The drummers struck their drums with great efforts and the surging crowds of dancers .... and .... the grounds around the palace.
A
structed/thumped
B
kicked/stamped
C
thumped/licked
D
stroked/thumped [PAGE 195]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q62 OK Answer: A
His summary of the meeting was brief and to the point
A
precise
B
accurate
C
exact
D
crucial
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q63
The chairman's laughter was with no … to ridicule the applicant.
A
intention
B
intend
C
intendment
D
intent
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q63 OK Answer: D
The chairman's daughter's laughter was with no .... to ridicule the applicant
A
intention
B
intend
C
intendment
D
intent
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q63 OK Answer: D
The minister hit on a plan to retain his post after many months of lobbying
A
drew up a plan
B
discovered a plan
C
selected a plan
D
designed a plan
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q64
The water is not good for drinking; it's been …. by the dead rabbit.
A
contaminated
B
infested
C
spoilt
D
diseased
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q64 OK Answer: A
The water is not good for drinking; it's been .... by the dead rabbit
A
contaminated
B
infested
C
spoilt
D
diseased
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q64 OK Answer: A
My friend will hate his uncle forever because he left him in the lurch in his hour of need [PAGE 211]
A
abandoned him
B
punished him
C
disinherited him
D
despised him
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q65
The austerity of the times has made people to be more … in their spending
A
watchful
B
circumspect
C
miserly
D
hesitant
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q65 OK Answer: B
The austerity of the times has made people to be more .... in their spending
A
watchful
B
circumspect
C
misely
D
hesitant
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q65 OK Answer: B
Our school prefect is too officious and we all hate him because of his behavior.
A
efficient
B
efficacious
C
over-zealous
D
active In the question below choose the word(s) or phrase(s) which best fill(s) the gap(s):
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q66
Are you sure he prefers a horse ride … a walk?
A
than to take
B
to taking
C
instead of take
D
than
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q66 OK Answer: B
Are you sure he prefers a horse ride .... a walk?
A
than to take
B
to taking
C
instead to take
D
than
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q66 OK Answer: B
When I met Amadi yesterday it was the first time I .... him for six months.
A
had seen
B
saw
C
have seen
D
have been seeing
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q67
… to your request, we have decided to provide the necessary information
A
As regards
B
With regards
C
With regard
D
Regarding
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q67 OK Answer: C
.... to your request, we have decided to provide the necessary information
A
As regards
B
With regards
C
With regard
D
Regarding
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q68
The price of everything seems to have … up in the last few months.
A
climbed
B
shot
C
risen
D
flared
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q68 OK Answer: B
The price of everything seems to have ... up in the last few months
A
climbed
B
shot
C
risen
D
flared
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q68 OK Answer: B
Many unrelated issues were touched upon in the .... of the discussion
A
cause
B
course
C
coarse
D
curse
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q69
Just to convince you about my commitment to the project. I shall … at the office before I leave for Kano tomorrow.
A
put up an appearance
B
put in an appearance
C
put up appearance
D
put an appearance
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q69 OK Answer: C
Just to convince you about my commitment to the project, I shall .... at the office before I leave for Kano tomorrow.
A
put up an appearance
B
put in an appearance
C
put up appearance
D
put an appearance [PAGE 196]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q69 OK Answer: C
The traveler had to run .... in order to .... the train.
A
first/catch
B
fast/cash
C
fast/catch
D
first/cash
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q70
There was a ... of steps.
A
stair
B
height
C
flight
D
climb.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q70 OK Answer: C
There was a .... of steps.
A
stair
B
height
C
flight
D
climb
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q70 OK Answer: C
When the driver lost control of his vehicle, the pedestrian began to run for ....
A
their dear lives
B
their dear life
C
dears lives
D
dear life
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q71
Many young men of nowadays do not know how to properly …. their clothes.
A
press
B
iron
C
smoothen
D
stretch.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q71 OK Answer: A
Many young men of nowadays do not know how to properly .... their cloths.
A
press
B
iron
C
smoothen
D
stretch
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q72
The dancers were all in … before their departure.
A
good spirits
B
good spirit
C
high spirit
D
high spirits
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q72 OK Answer: D
The dancers were all in .... before their departure
A
good spirits
B
good spirit
C
high spirit
D
high spirits
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q72 OK Answer: D
The new singlet factory is built on the .... of Aba township
A
outstretch
B
outskates
C
outskirts
D
outskirt
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q73
Ebun … the edge of the cliff after his shoes had failed to grip.
A
fell down
B
fell off
C
fell away
D
fell from.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q73 OK Answer: B
Ebun .... the edge of the cliff after his shoes had failed to grip.
A
fell down
B
fell off
C
fell away
D
fell down
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q73 OK Answer: B
If Kaka hadn't tried to stand up in the boat, he .... into the lake
A
wouldn't have fallen
B
will not have fell
C
will not have fallen
D
wouldn't have fell
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q74
That old lady prefers … bread … clothes
A
to bake/than making
B
to bake/to making [PAGE 32] C.baking/to making
D
baking/than to make
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q74 OK Answer: C
That old lady prefers .... bread .... clothes.
A
to bake/than making
B
to bake/ to making
C
baking/to making
D
baking/than to making
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q74 OK Answer: C
The soldiers were sufficiently equipped with ....
A
arms and ammunition
B
arms and ammunitions
C
arm and ammunitions
D
arm and ammunition
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q75
I wonder how much …
A
cost these earrings
B
do these earrings cost
C
are these earrings costing
D
these earrings cost.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q75 OK Answer: D
I wonder how much ......
A
cost these earrings
B
do these earrings cost
C
are these earrings costing
D
these earrings cost
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q75 OK Answer: D
My younger brother is going to the stream with .... boys
A
two other little
B
other little two
C
two little other
D
other two little
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q76
The college authorities have … the students to end the strike.
A
called for
B
called on
C
called
D
called at.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q76 OK Answer: B
The college authorities have …... the students to end the strike
A
called for
B
called on
C
called
D
called of
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q76 OK Answer: B
Okoro intends to wear his .... dress to zoo this afternoon
A
white cotton new
B
white new cotton
C
new white cotton
D
cotton white new
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q77
I have been trying to locate you …
A
since five days
B
five days now
C
since five days now
D
for five days.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q77 OK Answer: D
I have been trying to locate you ......
A
since five days
B
five days now
C
since five days now
D
for five days
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q77 OK Answer: D
Sociologists are concerned with the problem of man in ....
A
a society
B
the society
C
society
D
some society
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q78
The host insisted on … what he called ‘a little gift.'
A
me to accept
B
me accepting
C
my accepting
D
my acceptance.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q78 OK Answer: C
The host insisted on ... what he called 'a little gift'
A
me to accept
B
me accepting
C
my accepting
D
my acceptance
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q78 OK Answer: C
The contractors were short .... cash even before the project was completed
A
in
B
for
C
with [PAGE 213]
D
of
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q79
The whole class looked forward to … Kainji Dam at Christmas.
A
visiting
B
visit
C
be visiting
D
a visit
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q79 OK Answer: A
The whole class looked forward to .... Kainji Dam at Christmas.
A
visiting
B
visit
C
be visiting
D
a visit
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q79 OK Answer: A
The judge acquitted the accused .... all the eight counts
A
of
B
on
C
from
D
upon
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q80 OK Answer: A
If we go hunting this weekend, we'll have to .... with scratch meals and sleep in hut in the forest
A
make up
B
make do
C
make out
D
make good
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q81
I know you think I'm talking nonsense, Shehu, but … you'll realize that I was right.
A
at one time
B
on time
C
in time
D
at times
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q81 OK Answer: C
I know you will think am talking nonsense, Shehu, but .... you'll realize that I was right.
A
at one time
B
on time
C
in time
D
at time
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q81 OK Answer: C
‘Leave me alone' blurted the angry customer. I can't …... with your price hike
A
make do
B
put up
C
make out
D
make good
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q82
The Inspector of Education who made several trips on the bad roads returned yesterday completely … by fever.
A
brought down
B
put down
C
worn down
D
worn off
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q82 OK Answer: C
The Inspector of Education who made several trips on bad road returned yesterday completely .... by fever
A
brought down [PAGE 197]
B
put down
C
worn down
D
worn off
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q82 OK Answer: C
The committee was disgusted .... the way the office was being run
A
at
B
by
C
with
D
over
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q83
The vice principal asked the students to always … their answers only from the textbooks recommended for the course.
A
look out
B
search out
C
look up
D
bring up.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q83 OK Answer: C
The vice principal asked the students to always .... their answer only from the textbooks recommended for the course
A
look out
B
search out
C
look up
D
bring up [PAGE 198]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q83 OK Answer: C
Many a man .... done without milk in .... tea these days
A
had/their
B
has/his
C
have/their
D
had/his
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q84
I know that your friend will not accept the proposal …
A
and you neither
B
and neither you C.neither do you
D
neither will you.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q84 OK Answer: D
I know that your friend will not accept the proposal ....
A
and you neither
B
and neither you
C
neither do you
D
neither will you
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q84 OK Answer: D
The .... car is the center of attraction.
A
small racing light green
B
racing small light-green
C
small light-green racing
D
light-green small racing
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q85
Mark is a very handsome fellow who informs me that he has … for pretty girls.
A
a heart
B
a lip
C
an eye
D
a check.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q85 OK Answer: C
Mark is a very handsome fellow who informs me that he was .... for pretty girls
A
a heart
B
a lip
C
an eye
D
a check
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q85 OK Answer: C
If i had not finished my assignment, i would not .... the opportunity to go with the group
A
have been given
B
be given
C
be giving
D
have been giving [PAGE 214]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q86
Wale Agun, in creating his characters, draws freely … his experience in life.
A
by
B
in
C
on
D
of
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q86 OK Answer: C
Wale Agun, in creating his characters, draws freely .... his experience in life
A
by
B
in
C
on
D
of
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q86 OK Answer: C
You had better .... what the doctor recommended this morning
A
done
B
do
C
did
D
be doing
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q87
When I have an appointment with someone, I hate … waiting
A
to be keeping
B
for being kept C.being kept
D
in being kept.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q87 OK Answer: C
When I have an appointment with someone, I hate .... waiting
A
to be keeping
B
for being kept
C
being kept
D
in being kept
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q87 OK Answer: C
.... with him for two years, i cannot guarantee his good behavior.
A
To work
B
Having worked
C
too have worked
D
By working
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q88
It's no good … about the result until you have sat for the examination.
A
to worry
B
for worrying
C
worrying
D
to have worried
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q88 OK Answer: A
The event reported in the newspaper did not happen years ago; they ....
A
are of recent
B
had happened recently
C
are recent
D
recently happened
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q88 OK Answer: A
This is the kind of stew ....
A
which its taste I do not like
B
which I do not like the taste of it
C
of which taste I do not like
D
the taste of which I do not like
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q89
If you don't want to … your car to robber, then don't travel in the night.
A
loose
B
loss
C
lose
D
lost
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q89
.... is always superior to any other in town
A
There's
B
Theirs
C
Theirs's
D
There
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q90
The beautiful plan made for the expansion of the business fell … as soon as the manager died.
A
down
B
out
C
in
D
through
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q90 OK Answer: C
There is no need to stand .... ceremony in matters of this nature
A
by
B
to
C
on
D
for
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q90 OK Answer: C
I looked for you all over the campus but I could not .... you
A
find
B
see
C
meet
D
catch
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q91
The events reported in the newspaper did not happen years ago; they …
A
are of recent
B
had happened recently
C
are recent
D
recently happened
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q91 OK Answer: D
The driver will .... all the students interested in going to Lagos tomorrow at 7 a:m outside the Main Building
A
lift
B
lift up
C
pick
D
pick up
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q91 OK Answer: D
The manager was angry with Dauda for ... seeds of discord among the workers
A
planting
B
sewing
C
cultivating
D
sowing
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q92
There is no point getting upset by problems; I take them …
A
in my stride
B
on the spur of the moment C.by leaps and bounds
D
in a jiffy.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q92 OK Answer: D
What bothered me about the lecture was that the speaker ... too many irrelevant works
A
slighted
B
sighted
C
sited
D
cited [PAGE 199]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q92 OK Answer: D
The government has provided new .... for the local government polls
A
guard lines
B
guide lines
C
guardlines
D
guidelines
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q93
There is no need to stand … ceremony in matters of this nature.
A
by
B
to
C
on
D
for
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q93 OK Answer: A
The students were suspended because they were ....
A
indisciplined
B
undisciplined
C
undiscipled
D
disciplinary
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q93 OK Answer: A
Tsado and his wife are always fighting. The .... to be drawn from this is that they are not happy together, [PAGE 215]
A
reference
B
inference
C
difference
D
deference
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q94
The driver will … all the students interested in going to Lagos tomorrow at 7.am outside the main buildings.
A
lift
B
lift up
C
pick
D
pick up.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q94 OK Answer: B
We heard the .... of breaks which was followed by a crashing noise
A
screaming
B
screeching
C
scraping
D
streaking
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q94 OK Answer: B
The teacher invited Akpan and .... to his office
A
myself
B
me
C
I
D
himself
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q95
What bothered me about the lecture was the speaker … too many irrelevant words.
A
slighted
B
sighted
C
sited
D
cited.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q95 OK Answer: C
It's no good .... about the result until you have sat for examination
A
to worry
B
for warring
C
worrying
D
to have worried
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q95 OK Answer: C
One of the rioters who .... arrested yesterday .... released
A
was/had been
B
were/have been
C
was/have been
D
were/has been
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q96
The students were suspended because they were …
A
indisciplined
B
undisciplined C.undiscipled
D
disciplinary
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q96 OK Answer: C
If you don't want to .... your car to robbers, then don't travel in the night
A
loose
B
loss
C
lose
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q96 OK Answer: C
Although I am watching television. I .... what you are saying.
A
am hearing
B
can hear
C
have heard
D
was hearing
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q97
We heard the … of brakes which was followed by a crashing noise.
A
screaming
B
screeching
C
scrapping
D
streaking
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q97 OK Answer: D
The beautiful plan made for the expansion of the business fell .... as soon as the manager died.
A
down
B
out
C
in
D
through
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q97 OK Answer: D
Because of the .... he did to my car; I am going to sue him for ....
A
damage/damages
B
damages/damage
C
damages/damages
D
damage/damage
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q98
I had not given the question a thought before; my answer came …
A
momentarily
B
in an instant C . on the spur of the moment
D
just like that
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q98 OK Answer: C
I had not given the question a thought before my answer came ....
A
momentarily
B
in an instant
C
on the spur of the moment
D
just like that
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q98 OK Answer: C
He was not a very .... student when I first met him but the years .... his character ultimately
A
mature/mature
B
matured/mature
C
mature/matured
D
matured/matured [PAGE 216]
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q99
The small girl is … than her elder sister.
A
more cleverer
B
very cleverer C.much cleverer
D
much more cleverer.
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q99 OK Answer: C
The small girl is.... than her elder sister
A
more cleverer
B
very clever
C
much cleverer
D
much more clever
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q99 OK Answer: C
Our manager has instructed that .... of customers must be barred from our bank
A
those type
B
that type
C
that types
D
this types
Use of English JAMB 1988 Q100 OK Answer: A
.... are good friends
A
He and I
B
I and him
C
I and he
D
He and me [PAGE 200] JAMB ENGLISH 1989 USE OF ENGLISH