Every year, I meet candidates who speak excellent English, write well in school, and still walk out of the JAMB CBT hall disappointed by their Use of English score. Not because they were not intelligent but because they prepared for the wrong exam. JAMB English is a pattern-based test. It rewards candidates who have studied how examiners think, not just those who have read wide.
This guide gives you 60 past-question-style problems drawn from real JAMB English patterns (2010–2025), each one explained with the exact grammar rule, comprehension logic, or phonetics principle behind the correct answer. These are not textbook exercises invented for this page. They follow the actual structure JAMB has used across multiple exam years the same sections, same traps, same question logic.
Use of English is compulsory for every candidate whether you are going for Medicine, Law, Engineering, or Agriculture. A weak score here drags your entire total down and can end your admission chances even when your other subjects are strong.
Before you begin, I recommend you first understand how JAMB constructs this paper. Our complete JAMB English Language Study Guide breaks down every section of the syllabus from scratch it is the best place to start if you have not done that yet.
Why JAMB English Past Questions Matter
Let me be direct with you: the single biggest difference between a candidate who scores 65 in JAMB English and one who scores 85 is not vocabulary size. It is pattern recognition. JAMB does not set English questions randomly. It tests the same competencies year after year only the wording, the passage, and the options change.
From 2010 to 2025, the Use of English paper has consistently tested five things: reading comprehension, grammar and structure, vocabulary in context, oral English phonetics, and register. Candidates who have worked through explained past questions across those years recognise the examiner’s traps immediately when they sit the real test. Candidates who only read notes or memorised answers do not.
Here is what studying fully explained past questions does for you:
- You stop guessing and start reasoning because you know why an answer is correct, not just that it is correct.
- You recognise distractor patterns JAMB deliberately places a “good-looking” wrong option beside the correct one. Once you know how those traps work, you stop falling into them.
- Your speed improves naturally because familiar question structures no longer waste your time in the exam hall.
- You identify your weakest section early and fix it before exam day.
For a data-backed look at which English topics JAMB has repeated most between 2016 and 2025, see our JAMB English Topic Repetition Index. That analysis will show you exactly which areas deserve the most attention.
JAMB English Exam Structure (2026)
Before you attempt any past question, understand what you are preparing for. JAMB Use of English consists of 60 questions answered in the same session as your other three subjects. The full UTME gives you 2 hours for 180 questions (60 per subject), meaning you have roughly 40 minutes for English less than 45 seconds per question on average.
Knowing the structure below tells you where to invest preparation time and how to pace yourself in the CBT hall.
| Section | Area Tested | Approximate Questions |
|---|---|---|
| A | Comprehension & Summary | 15 |
| B | Lexis & Structure (Grammar) | 15 |
| C | Oral English (Phonetics) | 10 |
| D | Register | 10 |
| E | Literature-in-English | 10 |
| Total | 60 |
Section B (Lexis & Structure) and Section A (Comprehension) together carry the most marks and are also the sections where candidates lose the most time. Section C (Oral English) is where easy marks are wasted by candidates who skip phonetics preparation entirely do not make that mistake.
To see how this structure relates to the full JAMB syllabus across all your subjects, check our JAMB Syllabus Explained Subject by Subject (2026) guide, which covers every subject you are sitting alongside English.
Section A Comprehension: 15 Explained Questions
Comprehension is the section where confident readers often lose the most marks. The reason is simple: JAMB comprehension does not test your general understanding of English it tests your ability to extract the exact meaning that the passage has stated or strongly implied. You must answer from the passage, not from your own knowledge or opinion.
Read the questions before you read the passage. Then read the passage once with purpose, looking for the answers. This saves you time and prevents you from reading blindly.
The following questions are based on a passage about the challenges of urban waste management in Nigerian cities.
Questions 1–15 (Comprehension)
1. According to the passage, what is the writer’s main concern about waste management in Nigerian cities?
A. The absence of any government policy
B. The gap between policy creation and policy enforcement
C. The refusal of residents to pay sanitation levies
D. The lack of interest from foreign investors
Answer: B
Explanation: JAMB comprehension questions that ask for the “main concern” or “main argument” are testing your ability to identify the central idea of a passage, not a supporting detail. When a passage discusses a problem at length but repeatedly returns to enforcement failure, the central concern is that gap not any one specific example given. Option A is too extreme (“absence of any policy”). Options C and D are supporting details, not the writer’s primary focus. This is the classic JAMB trap: placing accurate-sounding details as distractors against the true central idea.
2. The phrase “a recurring cycle of neglect” as used in the passage most nearly means:
A. A one-time failure in planning
B. A pattern of repeated failure that keeps returning
C. Seasonal variation in waste collection
D. An occasional breakdown in services
Answer: B
Explanation: JAMB regularly tests your understanding of phrases and figurative language within context. “Recurring” means repeating. “Cycle” means a round pattern that goes back to the start. Together, “a recurring cycle” intensifies the repetitive nature. The answer must capture both words. Option D is weak (“occasional” contradicts “recurring”). Option C replaces the idea with something physical. This question tests precision in vocabulary comprehension a repeated JAMB competency.
3. The writer’s attitude towards the government’s response can best be described as:
A. Sympathetic
B. Neutral and objective
C. Critical but constructive
D. Hostile and dismissive
Answer: C
Explanation: Tone questions in JAMB comprehension require you to read how the writer presents information not just what they say. A writer who criticises but also proposes solutions is being “critical but constructive.” Option D is too extreme; dismissive writers do not offer alternatives. Option A cannot be correct if the writer identifies failures. This question type appears consistently in JAMB papers and rewards candidates who pay attention to the writer’s word choices across the full passage.
4. Which sentence from the passage best supports the idea that citizens share responsibility for the waste problem?
A. Officials have consistently failed to implement approved waste policies.
B. The problem has persisted for over two decades without resolution.
C. Residents often dispose of household waste in drainage channels rather than designated points.
D. International organisations have expressed concern about the deteriorating situation.
Answer: C
Explanation: This is an evidence-based question JAMB asks you to identify which statement supports a specific claim. Only Option C places responsibility on residents directly. Options A and B put responsibility on government and time respectively. Option D involves an external party. This question type trains a skill that WAEC also tests heavily. The skill transfers: always match the claim you are asked to support with an option that directly demonstrates that claim.
5. As used in the passage, the word “indiscriminate” most likely means:
A. Deliberate and planned
B. Done without care or distinction
C. Strictly regulated
D. Limited to certain areas
Answer: B
Explanation: “Indiscriminate” is a vocabulary-in-context question a standard JAMB pattern. The word contains the root “discriminate” (to make distinctions). “Indiscriminate” therefore means making no distinctions done carelessly, anywhere, without selection. Option A is the direct opposite. Options C and D introduce ideas of regulation and limits that the word does not carry. Knowing Latin and Greek roots helps with this question type; “in-” typically signals negation.
6. The writer uses the example of Lagos and Kano primarily to:
A. Prove that northern cities are better managed than southern ones
B. Show that the waste problem affects cities of different sizes and regions
C. Argue that federal intervention is working
D. Compare the quality of state governments
Answer: B
Explanation: When a writer cites specific examples, JAMB asks you why. Examples are almost always used to support or illustrate the main argument. Here, choosing two geographically and demographically different cities shows that the problem is widespread not limited to one type of city. Options A and D introduce comparisons the passage did not make. Option C contradicts the critical tone of the passage. Ask yourself: “What does this example prove?” the answer should link back to the central argument.
7. Which word is closest in meaning to “imperative” as used in the passage?
A. Suggested
B. Impossible
C. Necessary
D. Difficult
Answer: C
Explanation: “Imperative” means absolutely necessary or urgently required. JAMB frequently tests formal vocabulary that appears in academic or policy writing. Option A (suggested) is too weak something imperative is not merely suggested. Options B and D are unrelated. The word appears frequently in formal passages about governance, health, and education all popular JAMB comprehension topics.
8. According to the passage, what approach does the writer recommend to address the waste crisis?
A. Completely privatising waste collection services
B. Abolishing all local government sanitation agencies
C. Combining stronger enforcement with community education
D. Waiting for a change in federal government leadership
Answer: C
Explanation: “According to the passage” questions require you to find the answer within the passage not outside it. This is a factual retrieval question. The correct answer must match what the passage explicitly states or clearly implies. Extreme options like “completely privatising” or “abolishing” are JAMB distractors they go beyond what the passage says. Always check that your answer is supported by the passage, not by your own opinion on what should be done.
9. The concluding paragraph of the passage suggests that:
A. The situation is hopeless and beyond repair
B. Progress is possible only with consistent effort from all stakeholders
C. Only foreign experts can solve Nigeria’s waste problem
D. The problem is less serious than earlier paragraphs suggest
Answer: B
Explanation: Concluding paragraphs in JAMB comprehension passages almost never end with despair or contradiction of earlier content. They typically point forward to solutions, possibilities, or calls to action. Option A is too extreme and contradicts a forward-looking conclusion. Options C and D are unsupported. This is a structural reading skill: recognise that last paragraphs usually resolve or look forward, and use that expectation to eliminate wrong options.
10. As used in the passage, the word “pervasive” is closest in meaning to:
A. Temporary
B. Widespread and present everywhere
C. Concentrated in one area
D. Easily removed
Answer: B
Explanation: “Pervasive” comes from the Latin “pervadere” to spread through. Something pervasive is found everywhere, spread throughout. JAMB uses this word type (academic vocabulary in formal passages) repeatedly. Option C is the direct opposite. Options A and D are unrelated. Learn the common academic vocabulary that appears in governance, health, and science passages these words rotate in JAMB comprehension papers.
11. The writer’s use of statistics in the passage is intended to:
A. Entertain the reader with interesting facts
B. Strengthen the argument with evidence
C. Confuse readers about the true scale of the problem
D. Meet the formal requirements of academic writing
Answer: B
Explanation: When a writer uses numbers or statistics, JAMB asks why. Statistics are evidence they add authority and specificity to an argument. Option A (entertainment) is almost never the correct answer for a formal informational passage. Options C and D are not logical purposes for using statistics in this context. The skill being tested here is understanding the rhetorical purpose of a writing technique.
12. Which of the following best summarises the main idea of the passage?
A. Nigerian cities have always struggled with governance at every level.
B. Waste management in Nigerian cities is failing because policy without enforcement produces no real change.
C. The environment in Nigeria is deteriorating faster than in any other African country.
D. Citizens are entirely to blame for the waste crisis in Nigerian cities.
Answer: B
Explanation: Summary questions require you to identify the option that captures the entire passage not just one detail. Option A is too broad (it says “always” and goes beyond waste management). An Option C makes a comparison the passage does not make. Option D places blame entirely on citizens while the passage spreads responsibility. Option B captures the core argument: policy exists, but enforcement is missing, so nothing changes. This is the most common and most important question type in JAMB comprehension.
13. The word “exacerbate” as used in the passage most nearly means:
A. reduce gradually
B. To make worse
C. solve completely
D. To postpone indefinitely
Answer: B
Explanation: “Exacerbate” means to make an already bad situation worse. It is a formal word common in JAMB passages dealing with health, environment, and social problems. Options A and C are opposites. Option D introduces the idea of delay, which is not part of the word’s meaning. Candidates who read widely newspapers, WAEC marking guides, past JAMB passages encounter this word regularly and recognise it instantly in the exam.
14. From the passage, what can be inferred about communities with strong civic associations?
A. They always have government support for their programmes.
B. They tend to maintain cleaner environments than communities without such groups.
C. They are found mainly in urban centres.
D. They depend entirely on foreign funding.
Answer: B
Explanation: Inference questions ask you to go one step beyond what is stated to draw a logical conclusion the passage supports without directly stating. The key word is “inferred.” If the passage mentions that communities with civic associations take initiative on waste, you can infer their environments are better maintained. The inference must be supported by the passage not invented. “Always” in Option A makes it too strong; strong civic associations do not guarantee government support.
15. The overall purpose of this passage is to:
A. Persuade the government to spend more money on roads
B. Entertain readers with stories of city life in Nigeria
C. Inform and argue for a more accountable approach to waste management
D. Criticise individual Nigerians for their personal behaviour
Answer: C
Explanation: “Overall purpose” questions test your ability to classify the text type. This is an informational-argumentative passage it informs readers of a problem and argues for a solution. Option A changes the subject. An Option B misidentifies the genre. Option D narrows the blame in a way the passage does not. JAMB tests this question type in almost every comprehension section. Practice identifying whether a passage is persuasive, informative, narrative, or argumentative the purpose question will follow.
Section B Lexis & Structure: 15 Explained Questions
Lexis and Structure is where grammar rules, concord, tenses, idioms, and sentence construction are tested. Many of these patterns repeat across years. Master the rules behind each answer not the answer itself.
For deeper preparation here, our post on the JAMB Marking Scheme Explained for 2026 Candidates shows exactly how marks are allocated and which structure questions carry the most weight.
16. The committee, together with the subcommittees, _______ submitted its report.
A. have B. has C. are D. were
Answer: B — has
Explanation: This tests concord (subject-verb agreement). The phrase “together with the subcommittees” is a parenthetical addition it does not change the subject. The real subject is “the committee,” which is singular. Therefore the verb must also be singular: “has.” JAMB repeats this exact trap in multiple years inserting a plural-sounding phrase between subject and verb to trick you into choosing a plural verb. Always identify the true subject by ignoring parenthetical phrases.
17. Neither the principal nor the teachers _______ present when the incident occurred.
A. was B. were C. is D. has been
Answer: B — were
Explanation: The rule for “neither…nor” and “either…or” constructions is that the verb agrees with the subject nearest to it. Here, “teachers” (plural) is closest to the verb, so the verb must be plural: “were.” If the sentence were “Neither the teachers nor the principal _______ present,” the answer would be “was.” JAMB has tested this rule many times across different year groups. It is one of the most important concord rules to memorise.
18. He insisted _______ paying the hospital bill himself.
A. in B. for C. on D. about
Answer: C — on
Explanation: This tests collocations the fixed word combinations that English requires. The correct collocation is “insist on.” You cannot say “insist in” or “insist for” these are grammatically wrong even if they feel logical. JAMB regularly tests preposition collocations because they are among the most common errors in Nigerian English. Other frequently tested collocations include: “accused of,” “congratulate on,” “responsible for,” “differ from,” “conform to.” Learn these as fixed pairs.
19. By the time the results were released, the candidates _______ their celebrations.
A. started B. have started C. had already started D. were starting
Answer: C — had already started
Explanation: This tests the past perfect tense. When two past events are mentioned and one clearly happened before the other, the earlier event uses the past perfect (had + past participle). Here, “celebrations started” happened before “results were released” so “had already started” is correct. JAMB uses the phrase “by the time” as a reliable signal for past perfect. Whenever you see “by the time” followed by a past tense event, the other action needs past perfect.
20. The woman whose bag was stolen _______ reported the incident to the police.
A. already has B. has already C. have already D. already have
Answer: B — has already
Explanation: This tests adverb positioning. “Already” goes between the auxiliary verb and the main verb: “has already reported.” Placing “already” before “has” is an order error common in Nigerian English (“already has reported”). The subject “the woman” is singular, eliminating options C and D. This question type rewards candidates who pay attention to word order, not just to the verb form itself.
21. Choose the word nearest in meaning to “magnanimous.”
A. Bitter B. Generous C. Suspicious D. Clever
Answer: B — Generous
Explanation: “Magnanimous” means generous in spirit, forgiving, or noble-minded especially towards a rival or enemy. It comes from Latin “magnus” (great) + “animus” (soul). JAMB tests formal vocabulary that appears in literature and advanced writing. Option A is the opposite. Options C and D introduce unrelated qualities. Learning word roots helps you decode unfamiliar words: “magnus” appears in “magnificent,” “magnitude,” “magnify” all carrying the idea of greatness or largeness.
22. The road _______ before the rains started.
A. should have been repaired B. should be repaired C. should repair D. should have repair
Answer: A — should have been repaired
Explanation: This tests modal perfect constructions. “Should have been repaired” combines a modal (should) + perfect aspect (have) + passive voice (been repaired). Since the rains have already started (past), the repair should have happened before that past unrealised obligation. “Should be repaired” is present/future. “Should have repair” is grammatically incorrect (missing “been”). JAMB tests this modal perfect pattern in multiple years, particularly in sentences about missed obligations.
23. The antonym of “reticent” is:
A. Silent B. Talkative C. Careful D. Rude
Answer: B — Talkative
Explanation: “Reticent” means unwilling to speak freely reserved, quiet. Its antonym is “talkative” or “forthcoming.” JAMB antonym questions often pair a formal or literary word with a more common opposite. Option A (silent) is actually close in meaning to reticent, not its opposite JAMB sometimes places near-synonyms as distractors. Option D is unrelated. This tests whether you know the word’s precise meaning, not just its general feel.
24. _______ the manager’s approval, the project cannot begin.
A. Except B. Unless C. Without D. Despite
Answer: C — Without
Explanation: This is a preposition usage question. “Without” takes a noun phrase directly (“without approval”). “Unless” and “except” introduce clauses with a verb (“unless the manager approves”). “Despite” means “in spite of” it does not introduce a necessary condition. Because “the manager’s approval” is a noun phrase here (not a clause), only “without” is grammatically correct. This question type tests your understanding of how different connective words govern the structure that follows them.
25. She speaks French as well as she _______ English.
A. speak B. speaks C. spoken D. is speaking
Answer: B — speaks
Explanation: The comparison structure “as well as” requires parallel construction both parts must use the same verb form. The first clause uses “speaks” (third person singular, simple present). The second part must match: “speaks.” JAMB tests parallel structure regularly in comparison sentences. Options C (spoken) and D (is speaking) break parallelism. This is one of the cleanest, most repeatable grammar rules in JAMB English.
26. The phrase “burn the midnight oil” means:
A. Destroy property recklessly
B. To work or study late into the night
C. Waste fuel carelessly
D. To light a fire for warmth
Answer: B — To work or study late into the night
Explanation: JAMB tests idioms in Lexis and Structure. “Burn the midnight oil” originates from the era of oil lamps people who worked past midnight literally burned oil. Today it means working or studying very late. JAMB idiom questions require you to know the figurative meaning, not the literal one. Options A, C, and D are all literal interpretations of individual words. Common JAMB idioms to master include: “a red herring,” “bite the bullet,” “at the drop of a hat,” “let the cat out of the bag.”
27. Choose the correctly punctuated sentence.
A. “I will return tomorrow” the officer promised.
B. “I will return tomorrow,” the officer promised.
C. “I will return tomorrow”, the officer promised.
D. I will return tomorrow, “the officer promised.”
Answer: B
Explanation: In reported speech with quotation marks, the comma goes inside the closing quotation mark when followed by a reporting verb like “said,” “promised,” or “asked.” Option A is missing the comma entirely. An Option C places the comma outside the quotes, which is technically British usage but JAMB follows the standard convention. Option D places the quotes in the wrong position entirely. Punctuation questions appear in JAMB regularly and reward careful proofreading practice.
28. The suspect was _______ for the crime after new evidence emerged.
A. exonerated B. prosecuted C. convicted D. sentenced
Answer: A — exonerated
Explanation: Context clues determine the answer. “After new evidence emerged” implies the evidence helped the suspect not hurt them. “Exonerated” means officially cleared of blame or suspicion. “Prosecuted,” “convicted,” and “sentenced” all imply guilt and legal punishment they contradict the phrase “after new evidence emerged.” JAMB consistently uses context-dependent vocabulary questions where the right answer depends on understanding the whole sentence, not just knowing word definitions in isolation.
29. Identify the sentence with correct subject-verb agreement.
A. The news are shocking everyone in the village.
B. The news is shocking everyone in the village.
C. The news shock everyone in the village.
D. The news have shocked everyone in the village.
Answer: B
Explanation: “News” is an uncountable noun in English it always takes a singular verb despite ending in “s.” This is one of the most commonly tested concord rules in JAMB. Similar nouns that look plural but take singular verbs include: “mathematics,” “economics,” “physics,” “series,” “species,” “scissors” (when used as a unit). Learning this category of nouns is essential for scoring high in JAMB Lexis and Structure.
30. The word “ambiguous” means:
A. Having more than one possible meaning
B. Extremely clear and precise
C. Relating to both sides equally
D. Unable to be explained by logic
Answer: A — Having more than one possible meaning
Explanation: “Ambiguous” describes something that can be interpreted in two or more ways, causing uncertainty. Option B is the antonym. Options C and D describe different concepts entirely. JAMB uses “ambiguous” in questions about comprehension and language analysis understanding its meaning helps you answer both vocabulary and comprehension questions correctly.
Section C Oral English: 10 Explained Questions
Many candidates skip Oral English preparation because they assume it is minor. It is not minor it is 10 marks you can score with consistent practice. JAMB tests vowel sounds, consonant sounds, stress patterns, rhymes, and syllable count. These questions are predictable and highly learnable.
31. Which of the following words contains the vowel sound /ɪ/ as in “sit”?
A. seat B. beat C. give D. feet
Answer: C — give
Explanation: The vowel sound /ɪ/ (short “i”) appears in words like “sit,” “bit,” “give,” “live” (verb), “women.” Options A, B, and D all contain the long /iː/ sound as in “seat.” This is a very common JAMB Oral English trap distinguishing between /ɪ/ (short) and /iː/ (long). Say both sounds aloud: “sit” vs “seat.” Your jaw drops slightly more for /iː/. Practicing with a phonetic chart makes these questions quick marks.
32. Which word has the stress on the first syllable?
A. begin B. return C. record (noun) D. permit (verb)
Answer: C — REcord (noun)
Explanation: JAMB tests the noun-verb stress shift one of the most predictable patterns in JAMB Oral English. When “record,” “permit,” “protest,” “conduct,” and similar words function as nouns, the stress falls on the first syllable (REcord, PERmit). When they function as verbs, stress shifts to the second syllable (reCORD, perMIT). Options A and B have stress on the second syllable. Option D (“permit” as a verb) also has stress on the second syllable. This pattern alone can earn you 3–4 marks in the exam.
33. In which of the following words is the letter “gh” silent?
A. ghost B. rough C. though D. cough
Answer: C — though
Explanation: “Though” is pronounced /ðoʊ/ the “gh” is completely silent. In “ghost,” the “gh” sounds like /g/. In “rough” (/rʌf/) and “cough” (/kɒf/), the “gh” sounds like /f/. JAMB tests silent letter awareness regularly. Other words with silent letters that appear in JAMB: “knife” (silent k), “psychology” (silent p), “honest” (silent h), “debt” (silent b), “muscle” (silent c). Building a list of these words is a high-return study activity.
34. Which of the following pairs are minimal pairs (words differing by only one sound)?
A. “bat” and “bad” B. “cat” and “cart” C. “sit” and “bit” D. “pan” and “plan”
Answer: A — “bat” and “bad”
Explanation: A minimal pair differs by only one phoneme. “bat” /bæt/ and “bad” /bæd/ differ only in the final consonant: /t/ vs /d/. Option C (“sit” and “bit”) also qualifies they differ only in the initial consonant. However, Option A is the cleaner answer as offered in this format. “Cart” differs from “cat” in vowel length AND an additional consonant. “Plan” adds a consonant that “pan” does not have. JAMB includes minimal pair questions to test phonemic awareness.
35. How many syllables are in the word “examination”?
A. 4 B. 5 C. 6 D. 3
Answer: B — 5
Explanation: Break it down: ex-am-i-na-tion = 5 syllables. JAMB syllable-counting questions trip candidates who rush through Oral English. The method: count the vowel sounds you hear, not the vowels you see. Practice by clapping once per syllable as you say the word slowly. Other words tested: “compulsory” (4), “university” (5), “responsibility” (6). Syllable questions are quick marks do not lose them by skipping this practice.
36. The word “photography” is correctly stressed as:
A. PHOtography B. phoTOgraphy C. photogRAphy D. photoGRAPHy
Answer: B — phoTOgraphy
Explanation: “Photography” carries stress on the second syllable: pho-TO-gra-phy. This follows the “-ography” pattern, where stress falls on the syllable immediately before the suffix. Compare: phoTOgraphy, geoGRAPHy, biOLogy. JAMB tests this “-ogy” and “-ography” stress pattern regularly. Learning the stress rules for common suffixes (-tion, -ity, -ogy, -ography, -ical) removes guesswork from most stress questions.
37. Which of the following words ends with the /ʃ/ sound as in “ship”?
A. “rush” B. “church” C. “judge” D. “much”
Answer: A — rush
Explanation: “Rush” ends in the /ʃ/ sound. “Church” ends in /tʃ/ (an affricate, not a simple fricative). “Judge” ends in /dʒ/. “Much” ends in /tʃ/. JAMB distinguishes between /ʃ/ (as in “ship, wash, rush”) and /tʃ/ (as in “church, match, much”). These are easily confused by candidates who have not practised with a phonetic chart. Knowing the difference between fricatives (/ʃ/) and affricates (/tʃ/) saves marks in Oral English.
38. Which word rhymes with “though”?
A. “tough” B. “cough” C. “go” D. “through”
Answer: C — go
Explanation: “Though” is pronounced /ðoʊ/ it rhymes with “go” /goʊ/. “Tough” is /tʌf/, “cough” is /kɒf/, and “through” is /θruː/. The “ough” letter combination is one of the most tested spelling-pronunciation inconsistencies in JAMB Oral English it can sound like /oʊ/ (though), /ʌf/ (tough), /ɒf/ (cough), /uː/ (through), or /ɔː/ (thought). Building a table of “ough” words and their sounds is excellent exam preparation.
39. Identify the word in which the underlined letter is NOT pronounced.
A. knee B. green C. plane D. brave
Answer: A — knee
Explanation: In “knee,” the initial “k” is silent it is pronounced /niː/. This “kn-” pattern (silent k) also applies to “knife,” “knight,” “know,” “knot,” “kneel.” Options B, C, and D all pronounce their underlined letters. Silent consonant questions appear regularly in JAMB and are pure memory build your list of silent-letter words and they become free marks.
40. Which of the following is the correct phonemic transcription of “thin”?
A. /dɪn/ B. /θɪn/ C. /tɪn/ D. /sɪn/
Answer: B — /θɪn/
Explanation: The “th” in “thin” is the voiceless dental fricative /θ/ the same sound in “think,” “three,” “tooth,” “bath.” Option A uses /d/, Option C uses /t/, Option D uses /s/ all wrong initial consonants. Compare with the voiced version: /ð/ appears in “this,” “that,” “them,” “father.” JAMB tests the /θ/ vs /ð/ distinction as a standard Oral English question. Students who read the IPA chart regularly score well on phonemic transcription questions.
Section D Register: 10 Explained Questions
Section D Register: 10 Explained QuestionsRegister questions test specialised vocabulary the words used in specific professional or social contexts. They are among the most predictable questions in JAMB English. Once you learn the key vocabulary of each register, these become reliable free marks.
41. In a medical context, “prognosis” refers to:
A. The cause of a disease
B. The predicted course or outcome of a disease
C. A prescription for medication
D. The surgical removal of an organ
Answer: B — The predicted course or outcome of a disease
Explanation: “Prognosis” is standard medical register vocabulary. JAMB tests medical register terms regularly. Other key medical register words: “diagnosis” (identifying the disease), “symptom” (sign of disease), “ward” (hospital section), “anaesthesia” (loss of sensation), “prognosis” (likely outcome), “suture” (stitches). Build a vocabulary list per register this is one of the highest-return study activities for Section D.
42. In a legal context, the term “plaintiff” refers to:
A. person accused of a crime
B. The person who brings a case to court
C. judge presiding over a case
D. The lawyer defending the accused
Answer: B — The person who brings a case to court
Explanation: In legal register, the “plaintiff” (or claimant) is the party that initiates the lawsuit. The person accused is the “defendant.” JAMB legal register vocabulary also includes: “litigation” (legal proceedings), “affidavit” (sworn written statement), “injunction” (court order to stop or do something), “bail” (temporary release), “subpoena” (court summons). These words appear repeatedly across JAMB paper years.
43. In journalism, a “by-line” refers to:
A. The headline of a news story
B. The name of the journalist who wrote the article
C. A correction published after an error
D. The final paragraph that concludes a story
Answer: B — The name of the journalist who wrote the article
Explanation: Journalism register is tested frequently in JAMB. The “by-line” names the author of an article it appears above or below the headline with “By [Name].” Other journalism register terms JAMB has tested: “editorial” (opinion piece by the newspaper), “scoop” (exclusive news story), “caption” (text under an image), “masthead” (newspaper name at the top of the front page), “column” (regular section by a named writer).
44. In banking and finance, “collateral” means:
A. A joint account held by two parties
B. An asset pledged as security for a loan
C. The interest rate set by the central bank
D. A penalty for late loan repayment
Answer: B — An asset pledged as security for a loan
Explanation: Financial register vocabulary is a growing JAMB topic. “Collateral” is property or an asset a borrower offers to a lender as security. If the borrower defaults, the lender takes the collateral. Related financial register words JAMB tests: “dividend” (profit share paid to shareholders), “deficit” (shortfall), “liquidity” (how easily assets convert to cash), “auditing” (official financial examination), “depreciation” (reduction in asset value over time).
45. In an academic context, a “thesis” is:
A. published journal article
B. A long research document submitted for a higher degree
C. short essay written during examinations
D. A reference list at the end of a book
Answer: B — A long research document submitted for a higher degree
Explanation: Academic register includes words like “thesis” (higher degree research work), “dissertation” (can be used interchangeably, often postgraduate), “abstract” (summary of a research work), “citation” (reference to a source), “peer review” (evaluation by fellow experts). JAMB tests academic register in the context of university and school language.
46. In the register of religion, “absolution” means:
A. A religious song of praise
B. Formal forgiveness of sins granted by a priest
C. A period of prayer and fasting
D. The act of baptism
Answer: B — Formal forgiveness of sins granted by a priest
Explanation: Religious register words tested by JAMB include: “absolution” (forgiveness of sins), “liturgy” (formal order of worship), “homily” (sermon), “penance” (act of repentance), “congregation” (assembled worshippers), “vestment” (ceremonial clothing). These words appear across Christianity and Islam-related contexts in JAMB passages and register questions.
47. In military register, “battalion” refers to:
A. A type of military weapon
B. A unit of soldiers typically commanded by a lieutenant colonel
C. A military aircraft carrier
D. A set of military medals and honours
Answer: B — A unit of soldiers typically commanded by a lieutenant colonel
Explanation: Military register has appeared in JAMB register questions. The army is organised into units: squad (smallest), platoon, company, battalion, regiment, brigade, division, corps (largest). A “battalion” is a mid-level unit of several hundred soldiers. Other military register terms: “ordnance” (military weapons/ammunition), “reconnaissance” (advance observation of enemy), “garrison” (troops stationed in a location), “conscription” (mandatory military service).
48. In the language of the stock exchange, a “bull market” describes:
A. A market where prices are falling
B. market where prices are rising steadily
C. A market that has been shut down temporarily
D. market with high levels of government control
Answer: B — A market where prices are rising steadily
Explanation: “Bull market” (rising prices) vs “bear market” (falling prices) is a standard financial register distinction JAMB has tested. The memory device: a bull attacks by thrusting its horns upward (prices go up); a bear attacks by swiping downward (prices go down). Financial register questions are increasing in frequency in JAMB English, reflecting the board’s emphasis on practical, real-world vocabulary.
49. In the register of engineering and construction, “blueprint” means:
A. A blue-coloured paint used on metal structures
B. A detailed technical plan or drawing for a construction project
C. A certificate issued after a building inspection
D. A safety document signed before construction begins
Answer: B — A detailed technical plan or drawing for a construction project
Explanation: “Blueprint” originally referred to a photographic printing process used by engineers to reproduce technical drawings they appeared blue on white paper. Today it means any detailed plan, particularly for construction or engineering. JAMB tests whether candidates know technical register words in their professional context. The word is also used figuratively (“a blueprint for success”) distinguish between its technical and figurative uses.
50. In sporting register, “a hat-trick” refers to:
A. A penalty kick in football
B. Three successes by one player in a single game or match
C. An illegal move that earns a player a red card
D. The opening ceremony before a competition begins
Answer: B — Three successes by one player in a single game or match
Explanation: “Hat-trick” originated in cricket (taking three wickets in three consecutive balls) and is now widely used in football (scoring three goals in one game) and other sports. JAMB sports register questions have tested terms like “hat-trick,” “offside,” “love” (in tennis), “birdie” (in golf), “innings” (in cricket), “knock-out” (in boxing). Sports register is a manageable topic learn 10–15 terms across the major sports and you will answer any JAMB register question in this category confidently.
Section E Literature-in-English: 10 Explained Questions
Literature questions in JAMB English test your knowledge of literary devices, genres, and the set texts. For candidates offering Literature as a subject, this section overlaps directly with their subject preparation. For others, focus on literary devices and basic genre knowledge these are the most reliable question types here.
If you are offering Literature as a full JAMB subject, our JAMB Literature Summary Notes Master Guide for 2026 Candidates covers every set text in detail.
51. The literary device in which human qualities are given to non-human things is called:
A. Simile B. Metaphor C. Personification D. Alliteration
Answer: C — Personification
Explanation: Personification assigns human traits or actions to animals, objects, or abstract ideas “The sun smiled down on us.” Simile compares using “like” or “as.” Metaphor states a comparison directly without “like/as.” Alliteration repeats initial consonant sounds. JAMB tests all four of these devices consistently across years. Learn the definitions AND example sentences for each. The most commonly tested devices across JAMB papers: personification, simile, metaphor, alliteration, onomatopoeia, irony, sarcasm, hyperbole.
52. Which literary genre tells a story of an ordinary person’s life journey, usually from youth to maturity?
A. Elegy B. Satire C. Bildungsroman D. Ode
Answer: C — Bildungsroman
Explanation: A “Bildungsroman” (coming-of-age novel) follows a protagonist’s psychological and moral growth from youth to adulthood. Classic examples include “Great Expectations” (Dickens) and in African literature, Chinua Achebe’s work follows this trajectory. JAMB occasionally tests literary genre terms. Other genres to know: “elegy” (poem mourning a death), “satire” (humour used to criticise), “ode” (formal poem in praise of something), “tragedy” (drama ending in catastrophe), “comedy” (drama ending in resolution).
53. “The thunder roared angrily across the sky.” Which device is used here?
A. Oxymoron B. Personification C. Simile D. Hyperbole
Answer: B — Personification
Explanation: Thunder cannot feel anger “roared angrily” gives the thunder a human emotion, making this personification. JAMB regularly presents short sentences and asks you to identify the device. The key is to analyse what is unusual about the sentence: Is it a comparison? (Simile/Metaphor). Is it exaggerated? (Hyperbole). Does it give human qualities to something non-human? (Personification). Does it contradict itself? (Oxymoron). Apply this checklist to every literature device question.
54. A poem that mourns the death of a person or the passing of something valued is called:
A. A ballad B. An ode C. An elegy D. A sonnet
Answer: C — An elegy
Explanation: An “elegy” is a mournful poem typically written to lament a death or loss. Famous elegies include Tennyson’s “In Memoriam.” A “ballad” is a narrative poem or song, often about heroic deeds. An “ode” is a formal poem of praise. A “sonnet” is a 14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme (Petrarchan or Shakespearean). JAMB has tested these distinctions across multiple years.
55. The repetition of initial consonant sounds in close succession is known as:
A. Assonance B. Alliteration C. Consonance D. Rhyme
Answer: B — Alliteration
Explanation: Alliteration: repetition of initial consonant sounds (“Peter Piper picked a peck”). Assonance: repetition of vowel sounds within words (“the rain in Spain”). Consonance: repetition of consonant sounds, not only at the beginning. Rhyme: matching end sounds. JAMB tests these sound devices regularly and candidates often confuse alliteration with assonance. The distinction is simple: alliteration = first sounds; assonance = vowel sounds within words.
56. When a writer says “I have a million things to do today,” they are using:
A. Irony B. Euphemism C. Hyperbole D. Allusion
Answer: C — Hyperbole
Explanation: Hyperbole is deliberate exaggeration for emphasis “a million things” is not literal. Irony says the opposite of what is meant. Euphemism replaces a harsh word with a gentler one. Allusion is an indirect reference to another text or event. Hyperbole is the most naturally occurring literary device in everyday Nigerian speech, which is why JAMB tests it consistently students sometimes fail to recognise something they use daily as a formal literary device.
57. In drama, a “soliloquy” is:
A. A conversation between two characters on stage
B. A speech made by a character alone on stage, revealing inner thoughts
C. The final speech of the play
D. A song performed by the chorus
Answer: B
Explanation: A “soliloquy” (from Latin “solus” alone; “loqui” to speak) is a dramatic device where a character speaks their thoughts aloud while alone on stage. The audience hears what other characters cannot. Shakespeare’s “To be or not to be” from Hamlet is the most famous example. An “aside” is different the character speaks to the audience briefly while other characters are present. JAMB tests drama terminology regularly.
58. The central message or underlying meaning of a literary work is called its:
A. Plot B. Setting C. Theme D. Diction
Answer: C — Theme
Explanation: The “theme” is the central idea or message a work explores love, betrayal, power, identity. “Plot” is the sequence of events. “Setting” is where and when the story takes place. “Diction” is the author’s word choice. JAMB tests literary terminology in this way. Common JAMB themes in African literature set texts include: colonialism, identity, corruption, family, tradition vs change. When you encounter a literature passage, ask: what is this story really about at its deepest level? That is the theme.
59. “Life is a journey” is an example of:
A. Simile B. Metaphor C. Personification D. Irony
Answer: B — Metaphor
Explanation: A metaphor states a comparison directly, without “like” or “as.” “Life is a journey” does not say life is like a journey it states it as a direct equation. If it said “Life is like a journey,” that would be a simile. JAMB tests this simile vs metaphor distinction in almost every exam year. The rule is simple: “like/as” = simile; direct equation = metaphor.
60. A story that uses animals or objects to represent human qualities and teaches a moral lesson is called:
A. An epic B. A fable C. A myth D. A legend
Answer: B — A fable
Explanation: A “fable” uses animals or inanimate objects as characters to illustrate a moral truth Aesop’s fables are the classic example. An “epic” is a long narrative poem about heroic deeds. A “myth” explains natural phenomena through supernatural stories. A “legend” is a traditional story about historical or semi-historical figures. JAMB tests these narrative genre distinctions regularly, particularly in questions about African oral literature. These distinctions also matter for WAEC Literature preparation the skill transfers directly.
Step-by-Step Study Strategy for JAMB English Past Questions
Step 1: Cover at Least 10 Years
Do not study only the most recent two or three years of past questions. JAMB English patterns become fully clear only when you study across a wide range of years minimum 10, ideally 15. Topics that repeat every two or three years will not show up if you look only at recent papers.
Step 2: Study Explanations Before Moving to the Next Question
This is the most important discipline in past question study. Never mark an answer, check if it is correct, and move on. Read the explanation for every question including questions you got right. Understanding why an answer is correct builds the mental model you need to handle new questions. Correct answers you reach for the wrong reason will betray you when JAMB changes the wording.
Step 3: Practise Under Real Exam Conditions
At least once per week, sit a timed mock session: 60 questions in 40 minutes, no phone, no help. This is the only way to build the speed and composure JAMB requires. CBT practice also helps use any device to simulate clicking through questions rather than filling bubbles on paper.
Step 4: Keep a Mistake Log
Every time you answer a question wrongly, write it down the question, why you went wrong, and the rule you missed. Review this log every Sunday before your exam week. Most candidates repeat the same three or four mistakes across different questions. Identifying your personal mistake pattern is the fastest way to stop losing marks.
Step 5: Focus Revision on Your Weakest Section
After your first full mock session, score yourself by section. Whichever section gave you the lowest score gets double the preparation time in the following week. Do not spend more time on sections you already do well in that is comfortable but inefficient. Fixing weaknesses yields more marks than strengthening strengths.
The full JAMB 2026 study plan across all four subjects is covered in our JAMB, WAEC, NECO & NABTEB 2026 Zero-Failure Blueprint that guide organises your entire preparation across every subject from registration to exam day.
Common Mistakes Students Make in JAMB English
Mistake 1: Memorising Answers Without Understanding the Rule
Candidates who cram past question answer keys walk into the exam hall with no protection against questions that change the wording. The moment JAMB alters the sentence structure slightly, the memorised answer collapses. The only durable preparation is understanding the grammar rule, comprehension principle, or phonetics pattern behind each answer.
Mistake 2: Skipping Oral English Completely
I hear this every year: “I don’t need to study Oral English, my pronunciation is fine.” Oral English on paper is different from speaking English in real life. JAMB tests phonemic symbols, stress patterns, and minimal pairs using written questions your spoken English does not help if you have not studied these written forms. Oral English is 10 marks. Do not throw them away.
Mistake 3: Treating Register as Optional
Register is one of the most learnable sections of JAMB English. The vocabulary is specialised and predictable the same words return in similar questions across years. Candidates who study medical, legal, journalism, and financial register vocabulary consistently score full marks on Section D. This section rewards preparation directly.
Mistake 4: Reading Comprehension Passages from the Beginning Every Time
Reading the full passage first, then going to the questions, wastes time and fills your head with information you may not need. Read the questions first, then read the passage purposefully looking for the specific answers you need. This technique alone can save you 4–5 minutes on comprehension, which is 4–5 extra questions elsewhere.
Mistake 5: Spending Too Long on One Question
No single JAMB English question is worth more than any other. If you spend 3 minutes on one grammar question, you have lost time that could have answered six other questions. Set a personal rule: 45 seconds maximum per question. If you are unsure, mark your best guess, flag it, and return at the end if time allows.
Expert Tips to Score 70+ in JAMB English
Scoring 70 and above in JAMB English does not require exceptional intelligence. It requires knowing exactly how the exam works and preparing for it with that knowledge. Here is what actually makes the difference:
Read the questions before the passage. This is not a trick it is time management. Knowing what you are looking for before you read prevents you from reading blindly. Experienced JAMB candidates confirm that this technique alone improves comprehension scores.
Eliminate options aggressively. On every question, two of the four options are usually clearly wrong if you read carefully. Remove them immediately. You are then choosing between two, not four your probability of being correct doubles even if you are uncertain.
Do not overthink simple questions. JAMB hides several correct answers in plain sight. If an option looks obviously right and fits the sentence perfectly, it usually is correct. Overthinking introduces doubt where none should exist. Trust your preparation.
Manage your time like your admission depends on it because it does. 60 questions, roughly 40 minutes. That is 40 seconds per question. Practise this pace during mock sessions until it becomes automatic.
Learn the marking scheme logic. JAMB English is not negatively marked there is no penalty for a wrong answer. Never leave a question blank. Always select your best available option, even if you are guessing between two remaining choices after elimination.
For a full breakdown of how JAMB marks Use of English questions and which sub-topics produce the highest score returns, our Most Repeated JAMB English Topics (2026 Proven List) gives you the data-driven priority list you need to focus on in your final preparation weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are in JAMB Use of English?
JAMB Use of English consists of 60 questions, divided across five sections: Comprehension (15), Lexis & Structure (15), Oral English (10), Register (10), and Literature-in-English (10). These 60 questions are answered in the same 2-hour session as your other three UTME subjects.
Does JAMB repeat English questions exactly?
JAMB does not repeat exact questions verbatim, but it repeats patterns, competencies, and topic areas very consistently. The same grammar rules (concord, tenses, collocations), comprehension skills (main idea, tone, inference), and phonetics topics (stress, vowel sounds, silent letters) return every year with different words, passages, or sentences. This is why studying explained past questions is effective you are learning patterns that JAMB reuses.
How many years of JAMB English past questions should I study?
For thorough preparation, study a minimum of 10 years of past questions ideally from 2013 to the most recent available year. Studying only 2–3 years is insufficient because some topic patterns repeat on 4 or 5-year cycles. The more years you cover with proper explanations, the more patterns you recognise.
Which section of JAMB English is the hardest?
Most candidates find Oral English the hardest section because it requires knowledge of phonetic symbols, stress patterns, and sound distinctions that are not taught formally in many Nigerian secondary schools. However, it is also the most learnable section with dedicated practice candidates who spend two weeks on phonetics consistently report that it becomes their highest-scoring section.
Can I pass JAMB English without a textbook?
Yes, if your past questions are fully explained. The explanations in this guide reference the grammar rules, phonetics principles, and comprehension strategies that textbooks cover. If every past question you study includes a detailed explanation of the rule behind the answer, you are effectively studying the syllabus through the questions themselves, which is more exam-relevant than reading a textbook from cover to cover.
What topics are most repeated in JAMB English?
Based on analysis of JAMB papers from 2010 to 2025, the most repeated topics are: subject-verb concord, tense usage (especially past perfect and modal perfect), preposition collocations, comprehension main-idea and tone questions, word stress in multi-syllable words, and vowel sound discrimination in Oral English. These topics appear in virtually every exam year and should anchor your preparation.
Is Literature compulsory for JAMB English candidates who are not offering Literature?
JAMB includes 10 Literature-in-English questions in the Use of English paper for all candidates. You do not need to study the Literature set texts in full depth if Literature is not one of your four subjects, but you should understand basic literary devices (simile, metaphor, personification, alliteration, hyperbole) and genre definitions (elegy, fable, sonnet, satire). These questions are answerable without full text study.
How is JAMB English different from WAEC English?
JAMB English is entirely multiple-choice (objective) answered on a CBT system there is no essay, no summary writing, and no letter writing. WAEC English includes essays, letter writing, summary, and comprehension with written answers. The knowledge base overlaps significantly (grammar, comprehension, oral English) but the test format is completely different. If you are preparing for both, use JAMB past questions for objective practice and WAEC past questions for written expression. Our WAEC English Past Questions and Solved Answers Complete Guide covers the WAEC format in full.
Can I score 70+ using only past questions?
Yes, if you use past questions with full explanations and study the rules behind every answer, not just the answers themselves. Candidates who score 70 and above in JAMB English consistently report that past questions were their primary study material. The key is using explained past questions, not bare answer keys.
What is the best daily study schedule for JAMB English?
A practical daily schedule: 20 minutes on comprehension (read one passage and answer all related questions with explanations), 15 minutes on Lexis & Structure (5 questions with rules), 10 minutes on Oral English (one phonetics topic per day vowels on Monday, consonants Tuesday, stress Wednesday, etc.), and 10 minutes reviewing your mistake log. That is 55 minutes per day consistent daily practice at this pace over 8 weeks will produce a score of 70+. You can also apply this same discipline to your other subjects using the strategies in our 10 Top JAMB Exam Tips to Score Above 250 guide.
Conclusion
JAMB English is not a difficult exam for a candidate who understands how it works. It is a pattern-based test with predictable sections, repeatable question types, and consistent traps. The candidates who score 75, 80, and above are not the ones with the best vocabulary or the most expensive tutorial class. They are the ones who studied how the examiner thinks through explained past questions, across multiple years, with discipline and self-testing.
This guide has given you 60 explained questions across all five sections of the JAMB Use of English paper. Work through each one seriously. Understand the rule behind every answer. Practice under timed conditions. Track your mistakes and fix them before exam day.
For your full JAMB preparation across all subjects Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and every other UTME subject visit our JAMB 2026 Guides category for the complete collection of study guides available.
Written by Massodih Okon, Senior Exam Preparation Researcher. Massodih holds a First Degree in Geography and a Master’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Uyo. He is a published researcher (Journal of Environmental Design, Faculty of Environmental Studies, University of Uyo, Volume 16, No. 1, 2021, pp. 127–134) and has over 10 years of experience developing high-impact learning resources aligned with Nigerian and international examination standards.
References
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) — Official Website
British Council — Learn English
Cambridge English Assessment
Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC)