Q.1 If ‘→’ denotes increasing order of intensity, then the meaning of the words
[walk → jog → sprint] is analogous to [bothered → ________ → daunted].
Which one of the given options is appropriate to fill the blank?
(A) phased
(B) phrased
(C) fazed
(D) fused

The analogy walk → jog → sprint represents increasing physical intensity, so bothered → ________ → daunted requires a word for escalating emotional disturbance. The correct option is (C) fazed, creating bothered → fazed → daunted.

Analogy Breakdown

Walk indicates casual movement, jog adds moderate speed, and sprint delivers maximum effort. Bothered means mildly concerned, daunted implies strong intimidation or discouragement, and the blank needs a mid-level disruption like being unsettled.

Option Analysis

• (A) Phased: Past tense of “phase,” meaning divided into stages or gradual implementation, such as “phased out” policies. It lacks emotional intensity and fits processes, not feelings.

• (B) Phrased: Past tense of “phrase,” referring to wording or expressing something, like “carefully phrased.” No connection to disturbance levels.

• (C) Fazed: Means disturbed, disconcerted, or mildly daunted—stronger than bothered but weaker than fully overwhelmed. Perfect intermediate: bothered (slight worry) → fazed (unsettled) → daunted (intimidated).

• (D) Fused: Means melted together or joined, like fused metals. Irrelevant to emotional progression.

Exam Context

This question appeared in GATE CSE 2024 Set 2 (GA) and similar formats in CSIR NET/GATE Life Sciences verbal aptitude. It tests homophone recognition (faze/phase) and intensity gradients, common in competitive exams.