Understanding the Analogy Problem

This question tests our ability to understand analogies, specifically focusing on the concept of decreasing intensity. We are given two groups of words, Group-I and Group-II. Both groups follow a pattern where the words are arranged in order of decreasing intensity from left to right. Our task is to find the missing word in Group-II that fits this pattern, based on the words provided and the analogy with Group-I.

Analyzing Group-I

Group-I provides an example of decreasing intensity:

Abuse → Insult → Ridicule

Let's look at the intensity of these words:

• Abuse: This is generally considered the most severe form of negative action, involving harsh language or physical violence.
• Insult: While still negative, an insult is typically less severe than abuse. It involves speaking or acting in a way that is offensive or disrespectful.
• Ridicule: This involves making fun of someone or something in a scornful way. It is negative but often considered less intense than a direct insult or abuse.

So, the intensity decreases as we move from left to right: Abuse > Insult > Ridicule.

Analyzing Group-II

Group-II follows a similar pattern but with positive actions:

________ → Praise → Appreciate

We need to find a word that is more intense than 'Praise', which itself is more intense than 'Appreciate'.

Let's understand the given words:

• Appreciate: To recognize the full worth of something or someone; to be grateful for.
• Praise: To express approval or admiration of. This is generally considered more intense and expressive than simply appreciating something.

Therefore, the sequence indicates: [Missing Word] > Praise > Appreciate.

The missing word must represent an action that conveys even higher positive regard or commendation than 'Praise'.

Evaluating the Options

Let's examine each option to see which one fits the requirement of being more intense than 'Praise':

• 1. Extol: This means to praise enthusiastically or lavishly. This implies a very high level of praise, fitting the requirement of being more intense than 'Praise'.
• 2. Prize: To value highly. While related to positive regard, it doesn't necessarily mean expressing that regard as strongly as 'Extol' or even 'Praise'. It's more about internal valuation.
• 3. Appropriate: This means suitable or proper. It does not relate to the intensity of positive commendation.
• 4. Espouse: To adopt or support a cause or belief. This is about commitment, not about expressing praise or positive regard for someone or something in the way the sequence suggests.

Identifying the Missing Word

Comparing the options, 'Extol' clearly represents the highest level of positive commendation among the choices and fits the pattern of decreasing intensity:

Extol → Praise → Appreciate

This sequence correctly shows a progression from very strong praise ('Extol') to strong praise ('Praise') to recognition or gratitude ('Appreciate').

Conclusion

The word that best fits the blank in Group-II, maintaining the analogy of decreasing intensity with Group-I, is 'Extol'.