Verbal Analogies
Verbal analogies are a form of reasoning where the relationship between two pairs of words is examined. They often involve identifying the connection between words and then applying the same logic to find the missing word in a given pair.
Components of a Verbal Analogy:
- Base Pair: The first pair of words in the analogy that establishes the relationship. For example, in the analogy "Hot : Cold," "Hot" and "Cold" form the base pair.
- Relationship: The connection or relationship between the words in the base pair. In the example "Hot : Cold," the relationship is the opposite in terms of temperature.
- Target Pair: The second pair of words in the analogy where one word is missing. The goal is to identify the word that completes the analogy based on the established relationship. In the example "Hot : Cold :: Fast : _______," "Fast" and the missing word form the target pair.
- Answer Choices: The options provided as potential solutions to complete the analogy. In the practice section, these will be the options for completing the analogy.
Practice Section:
Given the analogy "Hot : Cold :: Fast : _______", let's analyze the relationship between "Hot" and "Cold." The relationship is one of opposition in terms of temperature. Now, apply the same logic to find the missing word in the second pair.
Analyze the options:
- A) Slow
- B) Quick
- C) Steady
- D) Speedy
Select the correct answer that completes the analogy based on the established relationship.
Practice Solution:
In the analogy "Hot : Cold :: Fast : _______", the relationship is one of opposition. Therefore, the missing word should be the opposite of "Fast."
The correct answer is A) Slow.
Explanation: Hot is the opposite of Cold, and Slow is the opposite of Fast.
Tips for Solving Verbal Analogies:
- Identify the Relationship: Understand the relationship between the words in the base pair.
- Apply the Logic: Use the identified relationship to find a similar connection in the target pair.
- Eliminate Incorrect Choices: Discard options that do not follow the established relationship.
- Use Context: Consider the context and meaning of the words to refine your choice.