The pair “Intimidate : Wheedle” shows two opposite methods of influencing someone (to coerce by fear versus to coax with flattery). Select the pair that preserves the same antonym relation.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Extol : Disparage

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
An analogy can capture a semantic relation—in this item, direct opposites (antonyms). “Intimidate” and “wheedle” are contrasting methods of persuasion: one forces compliance through fear, the other seeks compliance through charm or flattery. We must find another pair exhibiting a similarly clear antonym relation.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • “Intimidate” ≈ coerce by fear; “wheedle” ≈ coax/entice with praise.
  • Target: a pair where the two words are genuine opposites in ordinary usage.
  • Distractors may be unrelated, merely different, or mismatched parts of speech.


Concept / Approach:
First, confirm the relation (antonymy). Next, scan options for a pair that stands in a similarly strong opposite relation. “Extol” means to praise highly; “disparage” means to belittle or speak of as unimportant—clean antonyms within the same action domain (evaluation/speaking about something).


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Identify the stem relation: antonyms (coerce vs coax). 2) Evaluate each option for true antonymy, not mere difference. 3) Select the crisp opposite mapping: “Extol : Disparage”.


Verification / Alternative check:
Check standard dictionaries: “extol” (to praise) stands in natural opposition to “disparage” (to belittle). This mirrors the stem’s polarity contrast.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Resolute : Impetuous — not strict antonyms (resolute = firm/steadfast; impetuous = rash/hasty).
  • Coordinate : Disinter — unrelated meanings and even category mismatch.
  • Defile : Rebuke — to spoil vs to scold; not antonyms.
  • Approve : Condone — near-synonyms, not opposites.


Common Pitfalls:
Choosing pairs that are simply different rather than true opposites, or accepting weak/indirect contrasts.


Final Answer:
Extol : Disparage

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion