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:
Evaluate each pair for fixed collocation and meaning.Select “Nitty : Gritty” as the closest idiomatic match.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
Discussion & Comments