In the analogy “Tile : mosaic :: Knot : ____”, which option names the craft that uses knots as its basic building units?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: macrame

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This analogy links a basic unit to the larger artistic or structural pattern that it helps create. Tiles are small, regular pieces that together form a mosaic. Similarly, knots can act as small repeated units that form a particular kind of textile art. The question asks which craft or object uses knots in the same way that a mosaic uses tiles, testing your awareness of different creative techniques.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • First pair: Tile and mosaic.
  • Second pair: Knot and an unknown craft.
  • Options: embroidery, abacus, macrame, easel, canvas.
  • We assume standard meanings from arts and crafts.


Concept / Approach:
A mosaic is an artwork made from many small tiles arranged in patterns. Each tile is a basic building block. In fabric or cord based art, macrame is a craft in which patterns and shapes are created primarily by tying knots in cords or strings. Therefore, a knot is to macrame as a tile is to a mosaic, since both are repeated units forming a larger decorative piece.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Analyse the first pair. A mosaic is formed by arranging many individual tiles together. Step 2: Recognise the relationship as “basic repeated unit used to form a decorative whole.” Step 3: For the second pair, identify which art form uses knots as its main structural units. Step 4: Macrame is a textile craft that creates designs through patterns of knots in cord or string. Step 5: Conclude that knot is to macrame what tile is to mosaic, because both are essential small units within a pattern.


Verification / Alternative check:
Check the other options. Embroidery uses stitches, not knots, as its principal units, even though knots may sometimes appear. An abacus is a counting tool made of beads and rods, not knots. An easel is a stand that holds a canvas and is not a pattern formed from knots. Canvas is a surface on which art is created, not a craft that is composed of knots. Only macrame fits the description of a decorative form whose primary structure is made of knots.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Embroidery is closer than some options but still focuses on stitches made with thread through fabric rather than knots in cord. Abacus, easel, and canvas are all physical objects unrelated to knot based construction of patterns. None of these are created by repeating knots as a fundamental designing method, so they cannot mirror the tile mosaic relationship.


Common Pitfalls:
Students unfamiliar with macrame may choose embroidery because it is a common needlework term. Others may be distracted by canvas since it relates to art, but it describes a surface, not a method. In analogy questions with specialised vocabulary, it helps to recall definitions or visual images from everyday exposure to crafts, fashion, or interior decor.


Final Answer:
The craft that uses knots as its basic building units, in the same way a mosaic uses tiles, is macrame.

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