If '-->' denotes increasing order of intensity, then the meaning of the words [simmer --> seethe --> smolder] is analogous to [break --> raze --> ______].
Which one of the given options is appropriate to fill the blank?
A. obfuscate B. obliterate C. fracture D. fissure
GATE 2024 · General Aptitude · Most Appropriate Word · medium
Answer: B. obliterate
Analyse the source analogy: simmer -> seethe -> smolder: simmer = low, gentle heat/suppressed emotion; seethe = actively boiling, visible anger; smolder = deepest, most persistent intensity — a glowing intensity that is contained but fierce. Each word is strictly more intense than the previous.
Map to the target analogy: break -> raze -> ?: break = partial damage; raze = completely demolish a structure to the ground. The blank must represent an even more extreme, total level of destruction — one that leaves absolutely nothing, not even rubble.
Evaluate each option at the required intensity level: A. 'obfuscate' = to confuse/obscure — unrelated to physical destruction. C. 'fracture' = to break/crack — this is LESS intense than 'break', so it goes backwards. D. 'fissure' = a crack or split — also less destructive than raze. B. 'obliterate' = to destroy completely leaving no trace — exceeds raze in intensity; correct.