Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Clash
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary based odd man out question examines your understanding of word meanings and how they group together semantically. Recognizing subtle differences in connotation and context is important in verbal aptitude sections and language based reasoning questions.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The idea is to look for a common theme or action described by most of the words. Blend, mingle, and jumble all involve some sense of mixing or combining things together, although sometimes in a smooth way and sometimes in a disordered way. Clash, however, refers to disagreement, conflict, or strong opposition, which is a very different concept. Identifying this difference helps pinpoint the odd word.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Blend means to mix different elements so that they combine smoothly.
Step 2: Mingle means to mix or combine, often used for people or things coming together.
Step 3: Jumble means to mix things in a confused or disordered manner, but still involves mixing.
Step 4: Clash refers to conflict, disagreement, or a strong difference that leads to opposition, such as two people arguing or colors that do not go well together.
Step 5: Since three words relate to mixing and one word relates to conflict, the one related to conflict is the odd one out.
Verification / Alternative check:
You can also group the words into themes. Blend, mingle, and jumble can be placed under the theme of combining or mixing things. In contrast, clash would be grouped under the theme of opposition or disagreement. Because it cannot fit naturally into the mixing group, it is clearly different. This alternative grouping method confirms the same answer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Some students may be misled by the slightly negative feeling of the word jumble and think it is the odd one out. However, the question focuses on the underlying action or idea, not just pleasant or unpleasant connotation. The real conceptual divide is between mixing and conflict, so clash is the correct odd term.
Final Answer:
Clash
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