Analogy Structure

Understanding the A:B::C:D format and how to identify parallel relationships.

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Understanding the A:B::C:D format and how to identify parallel relationships.

An analogy expresses a relationship between two pairs of words: 'A is to B as C is to D.' The key to solving analogies is identifying the specific relationship between the first pair (A:B), then finding a word D that creates the same relationship with C. Success depends on precisely naming the relationship rather than finding superficial similarities.

A : B :: C : D (read as 'A is to B as C is to D')

puppy : dog :: kitten : cat (young animal to adult animal)
painter : brush :: writer : pen (artist to tool)
hot : cold :: light : dark (opposites)

How to recognize it

First, identify the exact relationship in the given pair
Name the relationship specifically (not just 'related to')
Apply that same relationship to find the answer
Check that both pairs have parallel structure

Common mistakes

Focusing on word meanings rather than relationships
Accepting any association instead of parallel structure
Not testing all answer options against the relationship

Practice guidance

Verbal Reasoning