If '-->' denotes increasing order of intensity, then the meaning of the words [walk --> jog --> sprint] is analogous to [bothered --> ________ --> daunted].
Which one of the given options is appropriate to fill the blank?
A. phased B. phrased C. fazed D. fused
GATE 2024 · General Aptitude · Most Appropriate Word · medium
Answer: The correct answer is C. fazed — 'bothered -> fazed -> daunted' mirrors 'walk -> jog -> sprint' in increasing intensity of emotional disturbance.
Establish the intensity scale: bothered (mild disturbance) < ? (moderate disturbance) < daunted (strong intimidation). The blank corresponds to 'jog' in the locomotion series — a clearly elevated but not maximum level of disturbance.
Eliminate incorrect options: A. phased — means divided into phases/stages, not related to emotional disturbance. B. phrased — means expressed in words, unrelated. D. fused — means joined or merged, unrelated. C. fazed — means disconcerted or unsettled; a moderate level of emotional disturbance. Answer: C.