Solving the Analogy: Dog : Guard :: Horse : ?

The question asks us to find the word that completes the analogy based on the relationship between the first pair of words. The analogy is structured as A : B :: C : D, where A is related to B in the same way that C is related to D.

Let's analyze the first pair: Dog : Guard.

This pair establishes a relationship where a Dog performs the action or has the primary function of Guarding. Dogs are often used for guarding property or people.

Now, we look at the third term: Horse.

We need to find a word from the options that relates to Horse in the same way that Guard relates to Dog. We are looking for a primary function, use, or action associated with a horse.

Let's examine the given options:

• Saddle: A saddle is a piece of equipment placed on a horse's back for riding. It is not a function or use of the horse itself, but something used with it.
• Ride: To ride is the act of sitting on the back of a horse and controlling its movement. This is a fundamental use and function of a horse, similar to how guarding is a function of a dog.
• Stable: A stable is a building where horses are kept. This is the dwelling place of a horse, not its function or use.
• Cart: A cart is a vehicle pulled by a horse. While pulling a cart is a use of a horse, riding is arguably a more direct and common function associated with the animal's inherent capability, much like guarding is for a dog. Comparing the relationship between Dog and Guard, where Guard is a direct activity performed by the dog, "Ride" represents a direct activity performed using the horse's back, fitting the analogy better than pulling a cart which involves an external object.

Comparing the options against the established relationship (animal : primary function/use), Ride is the action most directly associated with the primary use of a horse, similar to how guarding is a function of a dog.

Therefore, the complete analogy is Dog : Guard :: Horse : Ride.

Revision Table: Analogy Relationship

Additional Information: Understanding Analogies

Analogies are comparisons between two things that are similar in some way. In verbal reasoning questions, analogies test your ability to identify the relationship between a pair of words and apply that same relationship to a different pair.

Common types of relationships in analogies include:

• Cause and Effect (e.g., Heat : Expansion)
• Part and Whole (e.g., Finger : Hand)
• Synonyms (e.g., Happy : Joyful)
• Antonyms (e.g., Hot : Cold)
• Worker and Tool (e.g., Carpenter : Hammer)
• Animal and Dwelling (e.g., Bird : Nest)
• Function or Use (e.g., Knife : Cut)

To solve analogy questions effectively, always first determine the precise relationship between the first pair of words. Then, look for the option that replicates this exact relationship with the third word.