If '->' denotes increasing order of intensity, then the meaning of the words [sick -> infirm -> moribund] is analogous to [_______ -> silly -> daft]. Which one of the given options is appropriate to fill the blank? A. frown B. fawn C. vein D. vain

GATE 2024 · General Aptitude · Most Appropriate Word · medium

Answer: B. fawn

1. Understand the template sequence: sick (mild illness) -> infirm (significant weakness) -> moribund (near death). Three ascending levels of ill-health.
2. Evaluate the options for semantic fit: A. frown = a facial expression of displeasure, unrelated to foolishness. B. fawn = to flatter excessively in a naive/submissive way — a mild loss of good sense. C. vein = a blood vessel or a style/manner, unrelated. D. vain = conceited, also unrelated to the silly/daft domain. 'Fawn' is the best fit as the mildest antecedent to silly.
3. Confirm the analogy: fawn (mild, naive over-flattery) -> silly (light foolishness) -> daft (strong foolishness) mirrors sick -> infirm -> moribund.