Analogy — “Nuts : Bolts”. Choose the pair that mirrors a fixed, idiomatic duo used together to denote essentials/complements.

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:

  • We prefer idiomatic unity over mere co-occurrence or antonymy.
  • The semantic force should be similar—essentials/fundamentals.


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

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