Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Nitty : Gritty
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
“Nuts and bolts” is both a literal complementary pair (hardware) and an idiom meaning the practical essentials. The best parallel is another entrenched two-word idiom that similarly connotes getting down to core, practical details.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
“Nitty-gritty” is a classic idiom for core practical details, just as “nuts and bolts” is. This preserves both the fixed-collocation character and the meaning.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
“Salt : Pepper” is also a common complementary pair, but it lacks the idiomatic “essentials” meaning. The analogy emphasizes both complementarity and idiom.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They are either antonyms or non-idiomatic adjective–noun pairs.
Common Pitfalls:
Choosing any familiar pair without ensuring idiomatic semantic alignment with “nuts and bolts.”
Final Answer:
Nitty : Gritty
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