Analyzing the Word Analogy

The problem asks us to find a pair of words that has the same relationship as the original pair, PULSATE : THROB.

1. Determine the Original Relationship

First, we must define the relationship between "pulsate" and "throb".

• To pulsate means to expand and contract with a regular rhythm.
• To throb also means to beat or pulsate, typically with a strong or forceful rhythm.

The words are synonyms, but more specifically, "throb" is a more intense or forceful version of "pulsate". The relationship is one of intensity.

2. Evaluate the Options

Now we look for an option with the same relationship of intensity.

• A. walk : run Running is a more intense form of walking. This is a relationship of intensity.
• B. tired : sleep Being tired is a cause that leads to the effect of sleep. This is a cause-and-effect relationship.
• C. examine : scrutinize To examine is to inspect something. To scrutinize is to inspect it very closely and thoroughly. "Scrutinize" is a more intense form of "examine". This is a strong match for the relationship of intensity.
• D. ballet : dancer A ballet is a form of dance, and a dancer is the person who performs it. This is a relationship of an activity to its performer.

Conclusion

Both (walk : run) and (examine : scrutinize) show a relationship of intensity. However, "examine" and "scrutinize" are closer synonyms describing the same fundamental action, just like "pulsate" and "throb". Therefore, examine : scrutinize is the pair that best represents a similar relationship.