GRE Sample Questions & Answers

Explanation: This is a type of “symptom or manifestation' analogy. A HAND may become GNARLED (knotted and twisted) with age, just as a brow may become creased (wrinkled or ridged) with age. Gnarls and creases are each a manifestation of gradual deterioration. Since a tire goes flat abruptly and for one of many possible reasons, choice (E) is not as strong an analogy as choice (D).

Explanation: This is an “inherent function' analogy. A PENDULUM is designed to OSCILLATE (move back and forth); similarly, an automobile is designed to travel.

Explanation: This is as “ideal characteristic' analogy. Ideally, an ARCHITECT is CREATIVE; similarly, an ideal soldier is one who is obedient; that is, one who obeys the orders of a superior officer. Choice (B) is

incorrect because disloyalty is not just an ideal characteristic of a traitor; it is the defining characteristic.

Explanation: This is a “negative form of' analogy. A STIGMA (mark or sign of disgrace) is an unwanted DESIGNATION. Similarly, a predicament (difficult situation) is an unwanted circumstance.

Explanation: This is an “inherent function' analogy. The function of a TEACHER is to provide INSTRUCTION for another; similarly, the function of a guard is to provide protection for another. As for choice (D), although the “function' of a student might be said to learn, it is not to provide learning for another. So choice (E) is not as strong an analogy as choice (D).

Explanation: This is a “part-to-whole' analogy. A COG (gear or gear-tooth) is one of several types of components that together make a WATCH operate; similarly, a manager is one of many types of workers who contribute to the operation of a bureaucracy (a large, structured organization).

Explanation: This is one form of an “operates against' analogy. To QUELL is to suppress or put down, an act that eliminates an UPRISING; similarly, to quench is to completely satisfy a thirst, an act that eliminates it.

Explanation: This is a “form of' (degree or extent) analogy. PIVOTAL means “extremely IMPORTANT', just as draconian means “extremely stern'. The analogy is based on degree.

Explanation: This is a “result of' (process and product) analogy. When engaging in the art of SCULPTURE, especially wood sculpture, the artist produces a SHAVING, which is a byproduct of the sculpting process. When a person commits a burglary, the burglar’s arrest is a possible result, or byproduct. Another key to this analogy is that in neither case is the result the actor’s main objective or intention.

Explanation: This is a “result or product' analogy. The objective (final result) of a LOTTERY typically is a PRIZE, awarded to the lottery winner. Similarly, the objective (final result) of attending college typically is to be awarded a diploma. Choice (B) does not provide as strong an analogy a loan, although it’s one possible reason to engage a bank, is not an award.