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GRE GRE Section 1: Verbal Exam
Section One : Verbal (Page 3 )

Updated On: 12-Feb-2026
Page 3 of 66
PDF with 365 Questions

HAND : GNARLED ::

  1. tree : tall
  2. foot : cramped
  3. flower : crushed
  4. brow : creased
  5. tire : flat

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

This is a type of “symptom or manifestation” analogy. A HAND may become GNARLED (knotted and twisted) with age, just as a brow may become creased (wrinkled or ridged) with age. Gnarls and creases are each a manifestation of gradual deterioration. Since a tire goes flat abruptly and for one of many possible reasons, choice E. is not as strong an analogy as choice (D).



OSCILLATE : PENDULUM ::

  1. obligate : promise
  2. swim : pool
  3. purchase : product
  4. shake : earthquake
  5. travel : automobile

Answer(s): E

Explanation:

This is an “inherent function” analogy. A PENDULUM is designed to OSCILLATE (move back and forth); similarly, an automobile is designed to travel.



ARCHITECT : CREATIVE ::

  1. partisan : impartial
  2. traitor : disloyal
  3. soldier : obedient
  4. consumer : prosperous
  5. prisoner : rebellious

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

This is as “ideal characteristic” analogy. Ideally, an ARCHITECT is CREATIVE; similarly, an ideal soldier is one who is obedient; that is, one who obeys the orders of a superior officer. Choice B. is incorrect because disloyalty is not just an ideal characteristic of a traitor; it is the defining characteristic.



DESIGNATION : STIGMA ::

  1. odor : fragrance
  2. circumstance : predicament
  3. legislation : statute
  4. advice : command
  5. falsehood : lie

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

This is a “negative form of” analogy. A STIGMA (mark or sign of disgrace) is an unwanted DESIGNATION. Similarly, a predicament (difficult situation) is an unwanted circumstance.



TEACHER : INSTRUCTION ::

  1. lawyer : crime
  2. army : regiment
  3. doctor : disease
  4. student : learning
  5. guard : protection

Answer(s): E

Explanation:

This is an “inherent function” analogy. The function of a TEACHER is to provide INSTRUCTION for another; similarly, the function of a guard is to provide protection for another. As for choice (D), although the “function” of a student might be said to learn, it is not to provide learning for another. So choice E. is not as strong an analogy as choice (D).






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