Analogies
Analogies questions test the ability to identify relationships between pairs of words and apply the same relationship to another pair. They measure vocabulary knowledge, logical reasoning, and understanding of associations between concepts.
Types of Analogies
| Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Synonym Analogy | Words in the first pair mean the same. | Happy : Joyful :: Sad : Gloomy |
| Antonym Analogy | Words in the first pair are opposites. | Hot : Cold :: Day : Night |
| Part–Whole Relationship | One word represents a part of the other. | Petal : Flower :: Leaf : Tree |
| Cause–Effect Relationship | One word causes the other. | Fire : Smoke :: Rain : Flood |
| Function/Use Analogy | One word describes the function of the other. | Pen : Write :: Knife : Cut |
| Characteristic/Quality Analogy | One word describes a feature of the other. | Sun : Bright :: Moon : Cool |
| Degree/Intensity Analogy | Words differ in level or intensity. | Warm : Hot :: Cold : Freezing |
| Object–Related Analogy | Object and what it is associated with. | Teacher : School :: Doctor : Hospital |
How to Solve Analogy Questions
- Identify the relationship in the first pair: Synonym, antonym, function, cause–effect, etc.
- Test possible rules: See if the relationship holds logically in other contexts.
- Apply the same rule to the second pair: Ensure consistency in relationship, not just meaning.
- Eliminate unrelated options: Remove distractors that only partially fit.
Conceptual Tips and Common Mistakes
- Avoid word association bias: Focus on logical relation, not random similarity.
- Check direction: If the relationship is cause → effect, maintain the same direction.
- Watch degree relationships: Words may not be opposites but vary in intensity.
- Practice diverse analogies: Builds familiarity with patterns (synonym, antonym, part–whole).
Examples
Example 1 — Synonym Analogy
Big : Large :: Small : Little
Example 2 — Antonym Analogy
Victory : Defeat :: Success : Failure
Example 3 — Function Analogy
Knife : Cut :: Pen : Write
Example 4 — Cause–Effect Analogy
Fire : Smoke :: Rain : Flood