Analogies — Identify antonyms with the same polarity Prompt: Lively : Dull ⇒ ? Choose the pair that shows a clear opposite-meaning relationship.
Correct Answer: Employed : Jobless
Introduction / Context:Antonym analogies require finding another pair with the same opposite polarity. “Lively : Dull” contrasts energetic versus lacking energy or animation. We need an equally direct opposite relationship in the choices.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Lively ↔ Dull are clear antonyms.
- The correct option should present unambiguous opposites.
- Synonyms or non-lexical relations are distractors.
Concept / Approach:Scan options for pairs where one term negates the state of the other. Employment status provides a clean binary contrast like lively/dull in tone or energy.
Step-by-Step Solution:
“Employed : Jobless” — one has a job; the other lacks it. Clear antonyms.“Flower : Bud” — stages of growth, not antonyms.“Factory : Labour” — place-to-people relation, not antonyms.“Happy : Gay” — near-synonyms in many contexts.Verification / Alternative check:Try substituting: lively is to dull as employed is to jobless. Both reflect direct opposites of a condition (animation/work status). The mapping holds semantically.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Flower : Bud — represents development, not opposition.
- Factory : Labour — category relationship, not lexical opposition.
- Happy : Gay — similar meaning; fails antonym test.
Common Pitfalls:Mistaking related concepts or synonyms for antonyms. Always check whether one term truly negates the state defined by the other.
Final Answer:Employed : Jobless