Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: capable : inept
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:This analogy relies on recognizing opposites. “Dependable” (reliable, steady) is the opposite of “capricious” (impulsive, unpredictable). We need a second pair exhibiting a similar antonymic relationship.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:“Capable : inept” is a classic set of antonyms contrasting ability vs. inability. The remaining options are either mismatched or not antonyms (e.g., fallible vs. cantankerous are unrelated traits).
Step-by-Step Solution:
Confirm base: dependable (reliable) vs. capricious (unpredictable) — direct opposition.Scan options for genuine opposites: “capable : inept” qualifies.Reject others: “fallible : cantankerous” (error-prone vs. ill-tempered), “erasable : obtuse” (erasable vs. dull-minded), “malleable : limpid” (flexible vs. clear), “incorrigible : guilty” (incapable of reform vs. culpable — not opposites).Verification / Alternative check:
Both pairs map clean, widely accepted antonyms contrasting competence/stability with its opposite.Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They do not stand in opposition on a single semantic dimension; many are unrelated adjectives.Common Pitfalls:
Selecting words with negative connotations and assuming they are opposites. Opposites must share a clear axis.Final Answer:capable : inept
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