Q3. Select the word that fits the analogy:
Cover : Uncovered :: Associate : _____
(a) Unassociate
(b) Disassociate
(c) Unassociable
(d) Inassociate
The correct answer is (b) Disassociate.
Analogy Explanation
The analogy “Cover : Uncovered” shows an antonym relationship, where “uncovered” means removing coverage or exposure. “Associate” means to connect or link, so the fitting antonym removes that connection.
Option Analysis
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(a) Unassociate: Not a standard English word; lacks recognition in dictionaries or usage.
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(b) Disassociate: Valid antonym of “associate,” meaning to disconnect or sever ties; matches the prefix pattern “un-” to “dis-” for reversal.
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(c) Unassociable: Means unable to associate (adjective), not the verb reversal needed.
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(d) Inassociate: Non-existent word; no dictionary entry or common use.
The Cover Uncovered Associate Analogy tests antonym relationships in verbal reasoning MCQs, common in CSIR NET and GATE exams. This analogy highlights how “uncovered” reverses “cover” by removing protection or concealment. Similarly, the right word for “associate” (to connect) must reverse that action.
Why Antonym Pattern Fits
Analogies like Cover:Uncovered rely on direct opposites: cover hides, uncovered reveals. Associate joins, so disassociate separates—both use prefixes (“un-“, “dis-“) for negation.
Full Breakdown for Exam Prep
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Unassociate fails as an invented term without usage.
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Disassociate succeeds as the standard verb antonym, seen in GATE solutions.
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Unassociable describes incapacity, not action reversal.
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Inassociate lacks validity.
Practice this for competitive exams to spot prefix-based antonyms quickly.