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 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: \[ \boxed{\text{Obliterate}} \]