Question

If '$\rightarrow$' denotes increasing order of intensity, then the meaning of the words [simmer $\rightarrow$ seethe $\rightarrow$ smolder] is analogous to [break $\rightarrow$ raze $\rightarrow$ \_\_\_\_\_]. Which one of the given options is appropriate to fill the blank?

• A. obfuscate
• B. obliterate
• C. fracture
• D. fissure

Hint:

When solving analogy questions, always trace the \textbf{progression of intensity} in the first sequence and apply the same scale to the second. Look for the option that logically extends the intensity.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understand the analogy. The first sequence is: \textit{simmer $\rightarrow$ seethe $\rightarrow$ smolder}.
[6pt] - "Simmer" means to heat gently or show restrained anger.
- "Seethe" means to boil intensely or be violently agitated.
- "Smolder" means to burn slowly with strong, suppressed intensity.
Thus, the sequence represents increasing intensity of heat/anger. Step 2: Apply the same idea to destruction words. We are asked to find the sequence analogous to: \textit{break $\rightarrow$ raze $\rightarrow$ ?}
[6pt] - "Break" means to shatter or cause partial damage.
- "Raze" means to completely demolish, typically applied to buildings or structures.
- The next word must show an even greater degree of destruction, i.e., total elimination or wiping out. Step 3: Evaluate the options. - (A) Obfuscate: means to confuse or make unclear — unrelated to destruction.
- (B) Obliterate: means to destroy completely, wipe out beyond trace — stronger than "raze."
- (C) Fracture: means to crack or split, which is weaker than "raze."
- (D) Fissure: means a narrow crack — also weaker and not more intense than "raze." Step 4: Conclude. The correct word showing increasing intensity of destruction beyond "break" and "raze" is: \[ \boxed{\text{Obliterate}} \]