Question

PLACEBO: INNOCUOUS::

• A. antibiotic: viral
• B. vapor: opaque
• C. salve: unctuous
• D. anesthetic: astringent
• E. vitamin: synthetic

Hint:

For "object : characteristic" analogies, ask yourself if the characteristic is essential to the definition of the object. A placebo must be harmless to be used in an experiment. An ointment or salve must be oily to function as such.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This is an analogy where the second word describes a defining characteristic of the first word.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's form a bridge sentence. A PLACEBO is a substance that has no therapeutic effect, used as a control in testing new drugs. A defining characteristic of a placebo is that it is INNOCUOUS (not harmful or offensive). The relationship is object : defining characteristic. Now let's analyze the answer choices:

(A) antibiotic: viral - An antibiotic is a medicine that destroys bacteria; it is ineffective against something viral. This is not a characteristic.
(B) vapor: opaque - Vapor (like steam) is typically translucent or transparent, not opaque (not able to be seen through). This is an opposite characteristic.
(C) salve: unctuous - A SALVE is an ointment used to promote healing. A defining characteristic of a salve is that it is UNCTUOUS (oily, greasy). This fits the "object: characteristic" relationship.
(D) anesthetic: astringent - An anesthetic causes a loss of sensation. An astringent causes the contraction of skin cells. They are different types of substances.
(E) vitamin: synthetic - A vitamin can be natural or synthetic; "synthetic" is a possible characteristic but not a defining one for all vitamins. "Unctuous" is a much more inherent quality of a "salve."
Step 3: Final Answer:
The relationship "a PLACEBO is by its nature INNOCUOUS" is analogous to "a SALVE is by its nature UNCTUOUS."