If '-->' denotes increasing order of intensity, then the meaning of the words [dry --> arid --> parched] is analogous to [diet --> fast --> ________ ]. Which one of the given options is appropriate to fill the blank? A. starve B. reject C. feast D. deny

GATE 2024 · General Aptitude · Most Appropriate Word · medium

Answer: The correct answer is A. starve — the intensity series is diet (mild restriction) -> fast (moderate abstinence) -> starve (extreme deprivation), mirroring dry -> arid -> parched.

1. Map the analogy structure: dry : diet = mild level. arid : fast = moderate level. parched : ? = extreme level. We need the word for extreme food deprivation beyond fasting.
2. Evaluate options: A. starve — extreme food deprivation, fits perfectly. B. reject — means to refuse/dismiss, no food-deprivation intensity. C. feast — means to eat abundantly, opposite direction. D. deny — means to refuse, not an intensity of deprivation. Answer: A.