Analogy completion — choose the best word to complete the relationship: walk : skip : run :: toss : pitch : __

Introduction / Context:
This analogy compares intensities or types of motion within a shared domain. 'Walk, skip, run' are all human locomotion actions that can be ordered loosely by energy or intensity. 'Toss, pitch, __' should likewise be throwing actions ordered by intent or force, leading you to select the strongest or most forceful throw to parallel 'run.'

Given Data / Assumptions:

• First trio: walk → skip → run (increasing intensity/speed of movement).
• Second trio: toss → pitch → __ (increasing intent/force in throwing).
• We need a throw verb that is stronger than 'pitch.'

Concept / Approach:
Order the throw verbs by typical force and intent. 'Toss' implies a light, casual throw; 'pitch' implies a purposeful, aimed throw (as in baseball); 'hurl' implies a very forceful throw with maximum effort. Therefore, 'hurl' best continues the intensification pattern.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Substitute in contexts: you might casually toss a ball to a friend, formally pitch a ball to a batter, or hurl a rock with maximum force. This gradation aligns with the locomotion gradation (walk/skip/run).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• jump: locomotion but not a throw; wrong action domain.
• swerve: motion of turning, not throwing.
• dance: activity unrelated to throwing.
• lob: a gentle, high-arc throw, weaker than pitch; breaks the escalation.

Common Pitfalls:
Picking any throw-related word without checking intensity ordering. The analogy depends on progressive strength, not mere category membership.

Final Answer:
hurl