Word Analogies
Finding relationships between pairs of words (A : B :: C : ?)
Explanation
What is a Word Analogy?
An analogy shows a relationship between two pairs of words. The format is: A is to B as C is to D (written A : B :: C : D). Your job is to find D.
Example: Hot : Cold :: Day : Night
Hot and Cold are opposites → find the opposite of Day → Night.
Types of Analogy Relationships
| Relationship Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Synonyms (same meaning) | Happy : Joyful :: Sad : Miserable |
| Antonyms (opposites) | Hot : Cold :: Fast : Slow |
| Part to Whole | Petal : Flower :: Key : Keyboard |
| Function / Use | Brush : Paint :: Pen : Write |
| Category / Type | Oak : Tree :: Rose : Flower |
| Degree / Intensity | Warm : Hot :: Cool : Cold |
| Cause to Effect | Rain : Flood :: Fire : Smoke |
| Maker to Product | Bee : Honey :: Author : Book |
How to Solve Analogies
- Identify the relationship between the first pair (A : B).
- Express it as a sentence: "A is a type of B" or "A is used to B".
- Apply the same relationship to the second pair (C : ?).
- Check your answer fits the same sentence structure.
Example: Surgeon : Hospital :: Teacher : ?
"A Surgeon works in a Hospital." → "A Teacher works in a School."
Key Tips for the Selective Exam
- Always identify the relationship type before looking at the answer options
- Watch for tricky distractors — they may be related words but the wrong relationship type
- If stuck, eliminate answers that use the wrong relationship type
- Be precise: "Oak is a type of Tree" is more specific than "Oak is related to Tree"
Sample Practice Questions
-
Hungry : Eat :: Thirsty : ___
Show answer
Answer: Drink
-
Doctor : Hospital :: Judge : ___
Show answer
Answer: Court
-
Whisper : Shout :: Jog : ___
Show answer
Answer: Sprint
-
Author : Book :: Sculptor : ___
Show answer
Answer: Statue
Practice Questions
Test your knowledge of Word Analogies with a timed quiz. Answers are revealed at the end.
Take Quiz →Frequently Asked Questions
What does Word Analogies cover in the Selective Entry Verbal Reasoning exam?
Finding relationships between pairs of words (A : B :: C : ?).
How can I practise Selective Entry Verbal Reasoning Word Analogies questions for free?
Practise free Selective Entry Verbal Reasoning Word Analogies questions with instant answers and explanations on Safe Learning for Kids — no sign-up required.