WAEC English 2021 Paper

Concept:This question tests your ability to identify whether the letter $b$ produces a real sound or is silent in a word.Explanation:The word $womb$ is pronounced $\text{/wu:m/}$, so the $b$ is silent.The word $doubt$ is pronounced $\text{/daut/}$, so the $b$ is silent.The word $public$ is pronounced $\text{/'publik/}$, and here the $b$ makes a clear $/b/$ sound.The word $thumb$ is pronounced $/\theta \check{m}/$, so the $b$ is also silent.Therefore, only $public$ contains the actual $/b/$ sound represented by the phonetic symbol.Answer:C. $public$