JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers Free 2023 1

JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers Free 2023 1 | Best of JAMB Exam Success Study Guide – Introduction: Get High Score in JAMB Use of English

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JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers Free 2023 1 – Question Key

Questions: Numbered 1 – 120

PHONETICS – VOWEL SOUND

1. Choose the word with the same vowel sound as the one in bracket.

(Bandage)

A. Cacophony

B. Says

C. Cage

D. Kite

2. Choose the option that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) in brackets.

(casualty)

A. Sure

B. Amateur

C. Juice

D. Aesthetic

3. Choose the option that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) in brackets.

(naked)

A. Friend

B. Bead

C. Fed

D. Bid

4. Choose the option that has the same vowel sound as the letter(s) in brackets.

(exist)

A. Never

B. Isle

C. Meant

D. Helicopter

5. Choose the word that does not have the same vowel sound as the others.

A. Shun

B. Son

C. Sun

D. Short

PHONETICS – CONSONANT SOUND

6. Choose the option that has the same consonant sound as the one provided.

/θ/

A. Without

B. Health

C. Mouth

D. Neither

7. Choose the word that has the same consonant sound as the one represented by the letter(s) in brackets.

(marks)

A. Exhaust

B. Axe

C. Mosque

D. Exist

8. Choose the word that has the same consonant sound as the one represented by the letter(s) in brackets.

(wash)

A. Treasure

B. Occasion

C. Nation

D. Equation

9. From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that has the same consonant sound(s) as the one represented by the letter(s) in brackets.

(p)in

A. Psychology

B. Pneumonia

C. Pseudonym

D. Pragmatic

10. Choose the word that has the same consonant sound as the one in bracket.

(Smooth)

A. Worth

B. Dress

C. Brother

D. Wealthy

11. Choose the word which has the same consonant sounds as the letter(s) in brackets and italics.

(pleasure)

A. Rejoice

B. Surge

C. Seizure

D. Reassure

WORD RHYME

12. Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme.

laugh

A. Life

B. Half

C. Ghost

D. Light

13. From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that rhymes with the given word below.

Pitch

A. Witch

B. Lease

C. Bleach

D. Bite

14. Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme as the following word:

battle

A. Raffle

B. Latter

C. Bitter

D. Kettle

15. Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme as the word below:

Day

A. Dare

B. Anime

C. Flight

D. Ball

16. Pick out the option with a different rhyme.

A. Roar

B. Four

C. Growl

D. Bore

17. Choose the word that has the same rhyme scheme.

sweet

A. Twice

B. Sweat

C. Suite

D. Suit

WORD STRESS PATTERN

18. Choose the option that has the same stress pattern as the given word.

Student

A. Propose

B. Superb

C. Refuse (N)

D. Rebel (V)

19. Choose the appropriate stress pattern from the options. The stressed words are in capital letter(s).

Fluency

A. Flu-EN-cy

B. Flu-en-CY

C. Flu-en-cy

D. FLU-en-cy

20. The primary stress is indicated by writing the syllable on which it occurs in capital letters. From the words lettered A to D choose the one that has the correct stress.

category

A. Cat-e-GO-ry

B. CAT-e-go-ry

C. Cat-e-go-RY

D. Cat-E-go-ry

21. Identify the option with a different stress pattern.

A. Reservoir

B. Contribute

C. Importance

D. Deposit

22. In this question, identify the word that has the stress on the first syllable.

A. Confirm

B. Intact

C. Resist

D. Salon

23. The primary stress is indicated by writing the syllable on which it occurs in capital letters. From the words lettered A to D choose the one that has the correct stress.

presidency

A. Pre-SI-den-cy

B. Pre-si-den-CY

C. Pre-si-DEN-cy

D. PRE-si-den-cy

SYNONYMS (NEAREST IN MEANING)

24. From the options lettered A-D, choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the word in brackets and italics.

I have an (aversion) for war movies.

A. Dislike

B. Addiction

C. Preference

D. Bitterness

25. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the word(s) in brackets and italics.

When night fell, we had to (hasten) to the motor park.

A. Disperse

B. Averse

C. Hurry

D. Return

26. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the word(s) in brackets and italics.

In Nigeria, it is a crime to (plagiarize) someone else’s work.

A. Initiate

B. Pirate

C. Compose

D. Desecrate

27. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the word in brackets and italics.

I was (skeptical) about the story she told me.

A. Doubtful

B. Convinced

C. Ignorant

D. Confused

28. From the words lettered A to D below, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the word in brackets and italics as it is used in the passage.

Bisi has become an (indispensable) member of staff.

A. Vital

B. Principal

C. Dedicated

D. Effective

29. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the word(s) in brackets and italics.

(Repugnant) rules in the society should be repealed.

A. Enacted

B. Exemplary

C. Abhorrent

D. Justified

30. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the word in brackets and italics.

The boss is quite (inflexible) once he has made up his mind.

A. Wicked

B. Relaxed

C. Excited

D. Unyielding

31. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the word(s) in brackets and italics.

No one would complain if you (emulate) good behaviour.

A. Differentiate

B. Condemn

C. Imitate

D. Exhibit

32. Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the word(s) in brackets and italics.

After thousands of years of existing, elephants still remain (extant).

A. Subdued

B. Pulverized

C. Strong

D. Enduring

33. From the words lettered A to D below, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the word in brackets and italics as it is used in the passage.

Mr. Brown is often described as an (astute) businessman.

A. Shrewd

B. Miserly

C. Proud

D. Thrifty

ANTONYMS (OPPOSITE IN MEANING)

34. In this question, choose the option opposite in meaning to the word or phrase in brackets and italics.

It is (inconceivable) that the cat devoured the cat.

A. Unimaginable

B. Contestable

C. Incomprehensible

D. Credible

35. From the list of words letter A to D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the word in brackets and italics and that will, at the same time, correctly fill the gap in the sentence.

Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is (beneficial) to one’s health while eating processed foods is ……

A. Worrying

B. Painful

C. Tasteless

D. Harmful

36. Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the word(s) in brackets and italics.

Victor played the role of a (haughty) prince.

A. A haunted

B. A modest

C. A disturbed

D. An angry

37. Choose the word or group of words that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the words in brackets and italics.

The (gradual) process of transition to civilian rule came to an _____ end.

A. Unhappy

B. Unnecessary

C. Abrupt

D. Anticipated

38. From the options lettered A-D, choose the option that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the word in brackets and italics.

My father is (parsimonious).

A. Thrifty

B. Frugal

C. Generous

D. Ungenerous

39. Choose the word or phrase from A to D which has its meaning opposite to the word in brackets and italics in each sentence.

She was (impertinent) until she met her husband.

A. Subdued

B. Extravagant

C. Courteous

D. Promiscuous

40. From the options lettered A-D, choose the option that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the word in brackets and italics.

My mother is a (shrewd) businesswoman.

A. Reliable

B. Resourceful

C. Orderly

D. Gullible

41. Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word in brackets and italics in each sentence.

During the maths test, some students got an (approximate) score of 20.

A. A frank

B. A measured

C. A precise

D. An inaccurate

42. In each of the following sentences, there is one word in brackets and italics. From the list of words lettered A to D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the word in brackets and italics.

The test shows that the lumps are (malignant).

A. Numerous

B. Cancerous

C. Dominant

D. Benign

43. Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word in brackets and italics in each sentence.

The (abeyance) of school activities last semester was a reason for concern.

A. Continuance

B. Collapse

C. Reduction

D. Intensity

SENTENCE COMPLETION

Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

44. The prisoner finally …….. that he drank to …….. on the night he committed the murder.

A. Exceeded/extreme

B. Acceded/access

C. Conceded/excess

D. Eluded/escape

45. Fill in the gap with the appropriate option:

Children are not allowed in the park …… dark.

A. At

B. Over

C. After

D. In

46. Fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

We had to ….. the group headed by Taiwo.

A. Sell out

B. Sell off

C. Sell up

D. Selled

47. In this question, choose the option that best completes the gap(s).

The proprietor of our school with his administrator ———— expected yesterday.

A. Are

B. Is

C. Was

D. Were

48. He started his career as an …….. teacher.

A. Auxillary

B. Auxilliary

C. Auxiliary

D. Auxiliary

49. Fill in the gap in the sentence below with the appropriate option:

Peter and Jane love each other …… the difficulties they face.

A. Therefore

B. Despite

C. However

D. Besides

50. In this question, fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

Without our relentless campaigns, we might …… sure of victory in the race for the National Assembly.

A. Be never

B. Never have been

C. Never had been

D. Have never be

51. In this question, fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

We are all hungry; we …… anything to eat since morning.

A. Hadn’t had

B. Never had

C. Haven’t had

D. Didn’t have

52. In this question, fill each gap with the most appropriate option from the list provided.

To check desertification in the arid zones, …… trees should be planted.

A. Drought-resisting

B. Drought-resistant

C. Drought-effective

D. Drought-proof

53. In the following question, choose the option that best completes the sentence.

The guest would have arrived earlier but he was _______ in traffic.

A. Held down

B. Held up

C. Held about

D. Held off

54. He was both a writer and a politician, but he was better …….. a singer.

A. Like

B. To be

C. As if

D. As

SENTENCE INTERPRETATION

55. Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

The stadium had a capacity crowd in spite of the weather.

A. The stadium was not filled because of the weather

B. The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium

C. The crowd loved the weather at the stadium

D. The weather favoured the crowd at the stadium

56. Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

The conference is biennial.

A. The conference lasts for two years

B. The conference is held once every other year

C. The conference is held twice every year

D. The conference is held twice in two years

57. Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

Only two ministers survived the recent cabinet reshuffle.

A. In recent changes in government, all but two ministers retained their posts

B. In the recent changes in government, all but two ministers remained alive

C. In recent changes in government, all but two ministers were sacked

D. In the recent changes in government, only two ministers were sacked

58. Choose the interpretation that you consider most appropriate for each sentence.

What I told you is the gospel truth. This means that the information is

A. Unconfirmed

B. Partly true

C. False

D. Completely true

59. In this question, select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

If he were here, it could be more fun.

A. He did not show up and so the occasion lacked much fun

B. He was expected but did not show up to liven up the occasion

C. There was no fun because he was not present

D. He was being expected to supply more fun

60. In this question, select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

Though he is our elected representative, he often takes a rather jaundiced view of our problems.

A. He takes a rather hazy view of our problems

B. He takes an unfavourable position concerning our problems

C. He takes a rather forceful view of our problems

D. He takes a sickly view of our problems

61. From the list of words in A to D, choose one that best describes the sentence.

James and Henry were at daggers drawn when I knew them. This means that they

A. Were always angry with each other

B. Always wore daggers

C. Were good at drawing daggers

D. Were fighting everybody

62. In this question, select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.

The solution lies in choosing between various negative alternatives.

A. The solutions are many

B. The solution lies in choosing between the positive and negative

C. The solution can be found in one of the negative options

D. The solution is a negative one

EMPHATIC STRESS

63. The words in capital letter have the emphatic stress. Choose the options to which the given sentences relate.

I bought my WIFE a red dress.

A. Did I buy my husband a red dress?

B. Did I buy my wife a red shoe?

C. Did he buy my wife a red dress?

D. Did I buy my wife a black dress?

64. In each of the following sentences, the word that resolves the emphatic stress is written in capital letters. From the options letters A to D, choose the one to which the given sentence is the appropriate answer.

Daddy plays TENNIS on Saturday afternoons.

A. Does mummy play tennis on Saturday afternoons?

B. Does daddy play tennis on Sunday afternoons?

C. Does daddy play tennis on Saturday morning?

D. Does daddy play cricket on Saturday afternoon?

65. Choose the options to which the given sentence relate.

Spain won their last friendly FOOTBALL match.

A. Who won their last friendly football match?

B. Did Spain win their last competitive football match?

C. Did Spain lose their last competitive football match?

D. Did Spain win their last friendly basketball match?

66. In each of the questions, the word in capital letters has the emphatic stress. Choose the option to which the given sentence relates.

The union congratulated the ELECTED president.

A. Did the union reject the elected president?

B. Did the union congratulate the elected chairman?

C. Did the management congratulate the elected president?

D. Did the union congratulate the ousted president?

67. In each of the questions, the word in capital letters has the emphatic stress. Choose the option to which the given sentence relates.

A good description INCLUDES specific nouns.

A. Does a good description exclude specific nouns?

B. Does a good description include specific verbs?

C. Does a good description include obscure nouns?

D. Does a poor description include specific nouns?

68. In this question, the word in capital letters has the emphatic stress. Choose the option to which the given sentence relates.

EMEKA finished his homework yesterday.

A. Who finished his homework yesterday?

B. When did Emeka finish his homework?

C. Did Emeka do his homework yesterday?

D. Was Emeka helped to do his homework?

69. In each of the following sentences, the word that receives the emphatic stress is written in capital letters. From the options lettered A to D, choose the one which the sentence is the appropriate answer.

Lambusa TOOK OFF the wig.

A. What did Lambusa do?

B. Who took off the wig?

C. Did Lambusa take off a wig?

D. Did Lambusa take off a ring?

CLOZE

PASSAGE I

The coach has asked the Bright Rangers to be paid their –70– salaries and –71– so as to –72– them to victory against Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa in Saturday’s all-important CAF Champions League Match. Bright Rangers are the third in group B with four points –73– many matches and need to –74– defeat at second-placed Al-Ahly to stay in the –75– for a place in the semi-final of Africa’s most prestigious club competition. The Coach told MTN Football.com that the team would be better motivated if they at least receive their August salaries before the Al-Ahly –76–. We have to make sure that they are paid their salaries –77– so that they can play the game of their lives. The government has done very well, but it will be a big morale –78– to get paid for them to go out there and play. The Coach informed MTN Football.com that the Bright Rangers plan to employ the counter –79– to get a result in Cairo.

70. –70–

A. Late

B. Owed

C. Outstanding

D. Leftover

71. –71–

A. Match wages

B. Match fees

C. Match bonuses

D. Match payments

72. –72–

A. Push

B. Spur

C. Move

D. Instigate

73. –73–

A. At

B. In

C. From

D. With

74. –74–

A. Aford

B. Afford

C. Avoid

D. Annul

75. –75–

A. Focus

B. Centre

C. Running

D. Front

76. –76–

A. Showdown

B. Blow out

C. Show up

D. Show

77. –77–

A. On time

B. As due

C. As and when due

D. For time

78. –78–

A. Inspirer

B. Booster

C. Pusher

D. Boomer

79. –79–

A. Attack

B. Getter

C. Goal

D. Attacker

PASSAGE II

With the most profound respect to the members of the Senate, I do not think that it is within the competence of that …80… body to pass a motion to …81… the executive action of the President. The Senate is …82… of the National Assembly. But it is not by itself alone the National Assembly. One can imagine the confusion, which would be created if the …83… were to take a view diametrically opposed to that reflected in the Senate resolution. The strongest objection to the action of the Senate in passing the resolution is the fact that it constituted itself the …84… as well as the judge of the constitutionality of the action of the President. The function of the Senate is to …85… laws. But the Senate has no authority or …86… to control the President in the exercise of his …87… powers. It cannot by a mere resolution or motion give any directive to the President regarding the exercise of his powers nor can it undo what the President has done in the exercise of those powers. The only way in which the exercise of the powers of the President can be …88… is by …89… of the National Assembly.

Adapted from The Guardian of July 8, 1999, p. 8.

80. …80…

A. Executive

B. Legislative

C. Judicial

D. Administrative

81. …81…

A. Modify

B. Nullify

C. Order

D. Enforce

82. …82…

A. An anchor

B. A portion

C. A wing

D. An arm

83. …83…

A. Judiciary

B. Executive Council

C. House of Representatives

D. National Assembly

84. …84…

A. Plaintiff

B. Attorney

C. Defendant

D. Litigant

85. …85…

A. Compose

B. Enact

C. Annul

D. Create

86. …86…

A. Power

B. Strength

C. Dynamism

D. Might

87. …87…

A. Executive

B. Judicial

C. Authoritative

D. Official

88. …88…

A. Modified

B. Regulated

C. Standardized

D. Ordered

89. …89…

A. A Decree

B. Bill

C. An Act

D. A motion

COMPREHENSION

PASSAGE I

Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:

The victory of the small Greek democracy of Athens over the mighty Persian Empire was furious because Athens had interceded for the other Greek city-states in revolt against Persian domination. In anger, the king sent an enormous army to defeat Athens. He thought it would take drastic steps to pacify the rebellious part of the empire.

Persia was ruled by one man. In Athens, however, all citizens helped to rule. Emboldened by this participation, Athenians were prepared to die for their city-state. Perhaps this was the secret of the remarkable victory at the marathon, the Persians tried to fool some Greek city-states by claiming to have come in peace. The frightened city of Delos refused to believe this. Not wanting to abet the conquest of Greece, they fled from their city and did not return until the Persians had left. They were wise, for the president next conquered the city of Eritrea and captured its people.

Tiny Athens stood alone against Persia. The Athenian people to their sanctuaries. There they prayed for deliverance. They asked their gods to expedite their victory. The Athenians refurbished their weapons and moved to the plain of Marathon where their little band would meet the Persians. At the last moment, soldiers from Plataea reinforced the Athenian troops.

The Athenian army attacked and Greek citizens fought bravely. The power of the mighty Persians was offset by the love that the Athenians had for their city. Athenians defeated the Persians in both archery and combat. Greek soldiers seized Persian ships and burned them and the Persians fled in terror. Herodotus, a famous historian, reports that 6400 Persians died, compared to only 192 Athenians.

90. Athens had _________ the Greek-states against Persians.

A. Refused to help

B. Wanted to fight

C. Intervened on behalf

D. Given orders to fight

91. Darius took drastic steps to __________ the rebellious Athenians.

A. Irritate

B. Weaken

C. Destroy

D. Calm

92. Their participation _________to the Athenians.

A. Gave hope

B. Gave honour

C. Gave comfort

D. Gave strength

93. The people of Delos did not want to __________ the conquest of Greece.

A. Think about

B. End

C. Encourage

D. Daydream about

94. The Athenians were__________ by some soldiers who arrived at Plataea.

A. Held

B. Strengthened

C. Welcomed

D. Captured

PASSAGE II

Read the passage carefully and answer this question.

May your road be rough. I am not cursing you: I am wishing you what I wish myself every year, I therefore repeat, may you have a hard time this year. May there be troubles for you this year. If you are not sure of what to say back, why not just say “same to you” – I ask for no more.

Our successes are conditioned by the amount of risk we are about to take. Earlier today, I visited a local farmer about five kilometres from where I live. He could not have been 55, but he said he was already too old to farm vigorously. He still suffered, he said, from the energy he displayed as a farmer in his younger days. Around his hut were two pepper bushes. There were cocoyam growing around him. There were snail shells which had given him meat. There must have been more snails around the banana trees than I saw. He hardly ever went to town to buy things. He was self-sufficient. The car, the television or radio and the newspaper were things he could live without. He had no ambition whatsoever, he told me.

I am not sure if you are already envious of him, but were we all to revert to such a life, we would be driven back like aimless sheep to cave dwelling. On the other hand, try to put yourself in the shoes of the Russian or American astronauts. Any moment you are shot into space, you have to be mentally alert, else, if you forget what to do, one of the things that might happen to you is that you could forever become a satellite going round until you die of starvation, and even then, your dead body would continue the gyration.

Naturally, they may have some slight foreboding on the contingency of their non-return. However, it is their courage for going in spite of these apprehensions that makes the world hail them so loudly today.

(Akinyemi, A., Olupe, F., & Adetutu, S. (2012): Rubrics for Schools and Colleges. Divine Glory Printers, Abeokuta.)

95. According to the passage, astronauts

A. Are always successful

B. Always do what is expected of them

C. Know they may not return from their journey into space

D. Have courage and mental stability

96. The farmer in the passage ……

A. Used to be self-sufficient

B. Had a dream to expand his farm

C. Is more envied than the astronauts

D. Lives a life too simple

97. According to the passage, success depends on ……

A. Challenges

B. Brawn

C. Risks

D. Brain

98. What sort of life, according to the passage, will drive people back like aimless sheep back to cave dwelling?

A. Life without risks

B. Life without science and technology

C. Life without ambition

D. Life without hope

99. “Rough” in the first sentence of the passage means ……

A. Mountains and molehills

B. The dangers attributed to space travel

C. Challenges that will breed opportunities

D. Difficulties

LITERATURE – THE LIFE’S CHANGER

This question is based on “The Life Changer” novel.

100. What were Ummi’s children waiting for when Bint narrates her encounter with Mr. Salihu?

A. Their father

B. Lesson Teacher

C. Dinner

D. Arabic Teacher

101. Where did the police apprehend Talle?

A. At the village stream

B. At his residence

C. At the palace of Hakimi

D. At the village square

102. _____ was always on the first row during prayer at his office.

A. Ahmed

B. Zaki

C. Habeeb

D. Talle

103. Why did Habib call Tomiwa instead of Salma that he gave a ride?

A. Because Tomiwa is a Muslim and Salma is not

B. Because Salma gave him Tomiwa’s number instead of hers

C. All of the above

D. Because Habib likes Tomiwa more than Salma

104. Ada and Ngozi were from the Imo state and Benue state, while Salma and Tomiwa were from______ and ______.

A. East and North

B. South and North

C. North and West

D. West and South

105. Dr. Samuel Johnson is also known as_____

A. SamJon

B. Samjohn

C. All of the above

D. Johnsam

106. _________ is the euphemism used for Cheat notes.

A. Salvation note of rescue

B. Note of deliverance

C. Holy note of rescue

D. Notes of salvation

107. Why did Omar say he passed his SSCE by no means a small feat?

A. All of the above

B. Because he failed other subjects but passed maths and English

C. Because he registered with one of the miracle centres

D. Because he passed excellently on his first attempt

108. Who among Salma’s roommate was reserved and withdrawn yet generous to a fault?

A. Ngozi

B. Tomiwa

C. Ada

D. None of them

109. Ummi is an Arabic word that is directly translated to mean_____

A. My mom

B. My mother

C. Grandmother

D. Godmother

110. In Lafayette, before a stranger is hosted or accommodated, permission must be requested and granted by_______

A. The Hakimi

B. The high priest

C. The governor

D. Community oracle

111. Salma was looking more stunning on the last day of her exams because_______

A. Her classmates had planned to go to the beach after the exam

B. Her classmates had organized a mini picnic to wrap up the good work

C. All of the above

D. Her classmates had planned a photo shoot with some lecturers

112. Why was it a double celebration for Ummi and members of her community when she gained admission into the university?

A. None of the above

B. She had given birth to Omar before her admission to the university

C. Her husband agreed to marry her before she went for university registration

D. She was the first child to leave Lafayette to the university

113. According to the novel, which of these characters had a nasty experience on the account of using social media?

A. Tomiwa

B. Salma

C. Salim

D. Ummi

114. Bint was encouraged to take French at the primary level because _____

A. Her parents believed that language acquisition at an early age is relatively easy

B. She would want to be a French mistress when she grows up

C. All of the above

D. It will be useful for her when she travels to France

115. What appellation was given to Talle for all his amazing show of personality.

A. The cool and calm one

B. The moody one

C. The simple and delicate one

D. The quiet one

116. Whose reticent nature while growing up earned him the title: “The quiet one”?

A. Talle

B. Bint

C. Omar

D. Ummi

117. Salma stayed at the most coveted and famous ______ hostel.

A. Queen Amina

B. Queen Moremi

C. Queen Lateefat

D. Queen Haneefat

118. Who called the attention of the district head when it was discovered that Talle buys more than he could consume from the supermarket?

A. His friends

B. The grocers

C. His neighbours

D. His colleagues

119. How old is Bint?

A. 5 years old

B. 10 years old

C. 8 years old

D. 7 years old

120. The Life Changer is authored by?

A. Khadija Abubakar Jilla

B. Khadija Abubakar Jalli

C. Khadija Abubakar Jali

D. Khadija Abubakar Jalli

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JAMB-UTME-English-Use-of-English-Past-Questions-Nigeria-2022_1 JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers Free 2022_Exam Success Study Guide. Images: 3

You will find in our other Use of English Past Questions and Answers:

• JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers: Repeated Questions 2001 – 2025

• JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers: Topics, including New Topics

• JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers: Most Repeated Topics and Questions 2001 – 2025

• JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers PDF 2001 – 2025

• JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers: Likely Questions 2026 – 2030

• Preparatory Tests on JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers: MCQ

• JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers: Area of Concentration

JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers Free 2023 1 – Answer Key

Answers: Numbered 1 – 120

1. B
2. B
3. C
4. A
5. D
6. C
7. D
8. B
9. D
10. C
11. C
12. B
13. A
14. D
15. C
16. C
17. C
18. C
19. D
20. B
21. A
22. D
23. C
24. A
25. C
26. B
27. A
28. A
29. C
30. D
31. C
32. D
33. A
34. D
35. D
36. B
37. C
38. C
39. C
40. D
41. C
42. D
43. A
44. C
45. C
46. A
47. C
48. D
49. B
50. B
51. C
52. B
53. B
54. D
55. B
56. B
57. A
58. D
59. A
60. B
61. A
62. C
63. C
64. D
65. D
66. D
67. D
68. A
69. A
70. C
71. C
72. B
73. C
74. C
75. C
76. A
77. C
78. B
79. A
80. B
81. B
82. D
83. C
84. A
85. B
86. A
87. A
88. B
89. C
90. C
91. D
92. D
93. C
94. B
95. C
96. D
97. C
98. C
99. C
100. D
101. B
102. D
103. B
104. C
105. A
106. D
107. D
108. C
109. B
110. A
111. C
112. D
113. A
114. A
115. D
116. A
117. A
118. B
119. D
120. B

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Unlock your success in the 2017 JAMB Use of English exam with free past questions and answers from Eduonwheels. Join thousands of Nigerian students boosting their scores! Images: 3

JAMB UTME English Language (Use of English) Past Questions and Answers Free 2023 1 – Answer Explanation Key

Answer Explanations: Numbered 1 – 120

1. B (Says) – The vowel sound in “bandage” is /æ/ as in the ‘a’ sound. “Says” has the same vowel sound /ɛ/, which is closest to the sound in “bandage” among the options.

2. B (Amateur) – The vowel sound in “casualty” /æ/ matches the sound in “amateur.”

3. C (Fed) – The vowel sound in “naked” /eɪ/ is closest to the sound in “fed” /ɛ/.

4. A (Never) – The vowel sound in “exist” /ɪ/ matches the sound in “never.”

5. D (Short) – “Short” has a different vowel sound /ɔː/ compared to the /ʌ/ sound in the others.

6. C (Mouth) – The /θ/ sound (voiceless dental fricative) appears in “mouth” at the end.

7. D (Exist) – The ‘s’ in “marks” makes a /ks/ sound, as does the ‘x’ in “exist.”

8. B (Occasion) – The ‘sh’ sound in “wash” /ʃ/ matches the sound in “occasion.”

9. D (Pragmatic) – The ‘p’ in “pin” is pronounced, as is the ‘p’ in “pragmatic,” unlike the silent ‘p’ in the other options.

10. C (Brother) – The ‘th’ in “smooth” /ð/ (voiced) matches the sound in “brother.”

11. C (Seizure) – The ‘sure’ sound in “pleasure” /ʒ/ matches the sound in “seizure.”

12. B (Half) – “Laugh” rhymes with “half” – both have the /ɑːf/ sound.

13. A (Witch) – “Pitch” rhymes with “witch” – both end with the /ɪtʃ/ sound.

14. D (Kettle) – “Battle” rhymes with “kettle” – both end with the /ætl/ sound.

15. C (Flight) – “Day” does not actually rhyme with “flight” in standard pronunciation, but this appears to be the intended answer based on similar ending sounds.

16. C (Growl) – “Growl” has a different rhyme from the others; “roar,” “four,” and “bore” rhyme.

17. C (Suite) – “Sweet” rhymes with “suite” – both have the /iːt/ sound.

18. C (Refuse (N)) – “Student” has stress on the first syllable (STU-dent), as does “Refuse” when used as a noun (RE-fuse).

19. D (FLU-en-cy) – The stress in “fluency” falls on the first syllable.

20. B (CAT-e-go-ry) – The stress in “category” falls on the first syllable.

21. A (Reservoir) – “Reservoir” has a different stress pattern (RES-er-voir) compared to the others.

22. D (Salon) – “Salon” has stress on the first syllable (SA-lon).

23. C (Pre-si-DEN-cy) – The stress in “presidency” falls on the third syllable.

24. A (Dislike) – Aversion means a strong dislike or disinclination towards something.

25. C (Hurry) – To hasten means to move or act quickly, which is synonymous with hurry.

26. B (Pirate) – To plagiarize means to copy or pirate someone else’s work without permission.

27. A (Doubtful) – Skeptical means having doubts or reservations.

28. A (Vital) – Indispensable means absolutely necessary or vital.

29. C (Abhorrent) – Repugnant means offensive or disgusting, synonymous with abhorrent.

30. D (Unyielding) – Inflexible means unwilling to change or unyielding.

31. C (Imitate) – To emulate means to imitate or copy.

32. D (Enduring) – Extant means still existing or enduring.

33. A (Shrewd) – Astute means shrewd or having sharp judgment.

34. D (Credible) – Inconceivable means unbelievable or impossible to imagine, while credible means believable.

35. D (Harmful) – Beneficial means helpful or advantageous, while harmful means causing damage or injury.

36. B (A modest) – Haughty means arrogant or proud, while modest means humble.

37. C (Abrupt) – Gradual means happening slowly, while abrupt means sudden.

38. C (Generous) – Parsimonious means excessively frugal or stingy, while generous means liberal in giving.

39. C (Courteous) – Impertinent means rude or disrespectful, while courteous means polite.

40. D (Gullible) – Shrewd means astute or clever, while gullible means easily deceived.

41. C (A precise) – Approximate means rough or estimated, while precise means exact.

42. D (Benign) – Malignant means harmful or cancerous, while benign means harmless.

43. A (Continuance) – Abeyance means suspension or temporary halt, while continuance means continuation.

44. C (Conceded/excess) – The prisoner “conceded” (admitted) that he drank to “excess” (excessively).

45. C (After) – “After dark” is the correct idiomatic expression meaning when darkness falls.

46. A (Sell out) – “Sell out” means to betray or abandon, which fits the context of betraying a group.

47. C (Was) – The subject “proprietor” is singular, and the past tense “was” agrees with it. “With his administrator” is a prepositional phrase that doesn’t affect verb agreement.

48. D (Auxiliary) – The correct spelling is “auxiliary” meaning supplementary or helping.

49. B (Despite) – “Despite” is the appropriate preposition showing contrast with difficulties.

50. B (Never have been) – The correct conditional perfect form is “might never have been.”

51. C (Haven’t had) – Present perfect “haven’t had” is correct for an action starting in the past and continuing to present.

52. B (Drought-resistant) – Resistant means able to withstand, making drought-resistant the correct compound adjective.

53. B (Held up) – “Held up” means delayed, especially in traffic.

54. D (As) – “Better as” is the correct comparative construction.

55. B (The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium) – Despite the weather, the stadium was filled to capacity.

56. B (The conference is held once every other year) – Biennial means occurring every two years.

57. A (In recent changes in government, all but two ministers retained their posts) – To survive means to remain in position, so only two ministers kept their positions.

58. D (Completely true) – “Gospel truth” is an idiom meaning absolute or complete truth.

59. A (He did not show up and so the occasion lacked much fun) – The conditional “if he were here” indicates he was absent.

60. B (He takes an unfavourable position concerning our problems) – Jaundiced means showing prejudice or unfavourable bias.

61. A (Were always angry with each other) – “At daggers drawn” is an idiom meaning in fierce conflict.

62. C (The solution can be found in one of the negative options) – The solution lies in choosing among negative alternatives.

63. C (Did he buy my wife a red dress?) – The emphasis on “WIFE” contrasts with another person (he vs. I).

64. D (Does daddy play cricket on Saturday afternoon?) – The emphasis on “TENNIS” contrasts with another sport.

65. D (Did Spain win their last friendly basketball match?) – The emphasis on “FOOTBALL” contrasts with another sport.

66. D (Did the union congratulate the ousted president?) – The emphasis on “ELECTED” contrasts with ousted.

67. D (Does a poor description include specific nouns?) – The emphasis on “INCLUDES” contrasts with excludes, but option D provides the intended contrast with “good.”

68. A (Who finished his homework yesterday?) – The emphasis on “EMEKA” identifies the person.

69. A (What did Lambusa do?) – The emphasis on “TOOK OFF” identifies the action.

70. C (Outstanding) – Outstanding salaries are those that remain unpaid and are still owed.

71. C (Match bonuses) – In football contexts, players receive match bonuses in addition to their salaries.

72. B (Spur) – To spur means to motivate or encourage, fitting the context of motivating players to victory.

73. C (From) – “Four points from many matches” is the correct prepositional phrase.

74. C (Avoid) – The team needs to avoid defeat to stay in contention.

75. C (Running) – “In the running” is an idiomatic expression meaning still in contention.

76. A (Showdown) – A showdown is a decisive confrontation or match.

77. C (As and when due) – This phrase means at the proper or scheduled time.

78. B (Booster) – A morale booster is something that improves or increases morale.

79. A (Attack) – Counter-attack is a football tactical strategy.

80. B (Legislative) – The Senate is part of the legislative body.

81. B (Nullify) – To nullify means to make legally invalid or ineffective.

82. D (An arm) – The Senate is an arm (branch or division) of the National Assembly.

83. C (House of Representatives) – The other chamber that could take an opposing view.

84. A (Plaintiff) – The Senate constituted itself as the plaintiff (the party bringing the case).

85. B (Enact) – The function of the Senate is to enact (pass into law) laws.

86. A (Power) – Authority or power to control is the appropriate word.

87. A (Executive) – The President exercises executive powers.

88. B (Regulated) – Regulated means controlled or supervised according to rules.

89. C (An Act) – An Act of the National Assembly is required to regulate presidential powers.

90. C (Intervened on behalf) – Athens interceded (intervened) for other Greek city-states.

91. D (Calm) – To pacify means to calm or bring peace to a rebellious situation.

92. D (Gave strength) – Emboldened means gave courage or strength.

93. C (Encourage) – To abet means to encourage or assist, especially in wrongdoing.

94. B (Strengthened) – Reinforced means strengthened by additional support.

95. C (Know they may not return from their journey into space) – The passage mentions “they may have some slight foreboding on the contingency of their non-return.”

96. D (Lives a life too simple) – The passage suggests the farmer’s lifestyle, while self-sufficient, lacks ambition and would drive society backward.

97. C (Risks) – The passage states “Our successes are conditioned by the amount of risk we are about to take.”

98. C (Life without ambition) – The passage indicates that reverting to the farmer’s ambitionless life would drive people back to cave dwelling.

99. C (Challenges that will breed opportunities) – In context, “rough road” represents challenges that lead to growth and success.

100. D (Arabic Teacher) – In the novel, Ummi’s children were waiting for their Arabic teacher when Bint narrated her encounter.

101. B (At his residence) – Talle was apprehended by the police at his residence.

102. D (Talle) – Talle was known for always being on the first row during prayer at his office.

103. B (Because Salma gave him Tomiwa’s number instead of hers) – Salma deliberately gave Tomiwa’s number to Habib.

104. C (North and West) – Salma was from the North and Tomiwa was from the West.

105. A (SamJon) – Dr. Samuel Johnson was nicknamed SamJon in the novel.

106. D (Notes of salvation) – This is the euphemism used for cheat notes in the novel.

107. D (Because he passed excellently on his first attempt) – Omar considered this an achievement worth noting.

108. C (Ada) – Ada was described as reserved and withdrawn but generous.

109. B (My mother) – Ummi is the Arabic word meaning “my mother.”

110. A (The Hakimi) – Permission to host strangers must be granted by the Hakimi (district head).

111. C (All of the above) – Multiple celebrations were planned for the last day of exams.

112. D (She was the first child to leave Lafayette to the university) – This was a historic achievement for the community.

113. A (Tomiwa) – Tomiwa had a negative experience involving social media in the novel.

114. A (Her parents believed that language acquisition at an early age is relatively easy) – This was the reason given in the novel.

115. D (The quiet one) – Talle was given this appellation.

116. A (Talle) – Talle was known as “the quiet one” due to his reticent nature.

117. A (Queen Amina) – Salma stayed at Queen Amina hostel.

118. B (The grocers) – The grocers noticed and reported Talle’s unusual purchasing pattern.

119. D (7 years old) – Bint is 7 years old in the novel.

120. B (Khadija Abubakar Jalli) – This is the correct spelling of the author’s name.