Idiomatic Expressions - Jamb English Language Past Questions and Answers

Question 41:

• JAMB 1988

In the question below choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase(s) Underlined:The preacher is under a cloud among the congregation

A. Out of favour
B. Under observation
C. Under weather
D. Confused

Question 42:

• JAMB 1988

In the question below choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase(s) Underlined: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

Question 43:

• JAMB 1988

In the question below choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase(s) Underlined: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

Question 44:

• JAMB 1988

In the question below choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase(s) Underlined: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

Question 45:

• JAMB 1989

In the question below choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase(s) Underlined: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