The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is pride.
This question presents an analogy, which is a literary device that creates a comparison by showing how two seemingly different things are similar. The format is “A is to B as C is to D.” To solve it, one must first determine the relationship between the first pair of words (A and B) and then apply that same relationship to find the correct word for the second pair (C and D).
In the first part of the analogy, “frailty is to strength,” we must analyze the connection between these two words. Frailty refers to the state of being weak, delicate, or easily broken. It signifies a lack of physical or moral robustness. Strength, in contrast, is the quality or state of being physically, mentally, or emotionally powerful and resilient. The relationship between frailty and strength is one of antonyms; they are direct opposites. One represents the absence of the other.
Following this logic, we must find the word that is the opposite of “shame.” Shame is a deeply painful and powerful emotion stemming from the belief that one is flawed, unworthy, or has done something wrong or foolish. It is associated with feelings of humiliation, disgrace, and diminished self worth. We must now evaluate the given options to find its antonym.
The word “confusion” means a lack of understanding or a state of being bewildered, which is not an opposite of shame. The word “embarrassment” is a synonym or a closely related concept to shame. While embarrassment is often a more temporary or superficial feeling about a specific awkward action, shame is a deeper, more personal feeling about one’s core self. Because it is similar and not opposite, it is incorrect.
The correct choice is “pride.” Pride is a feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one’s own achievements, qualities, or from those of people one is close to. It represents a positive sense of self esteem, dignity, and self respect. This feeling of worthiness and honor is the direct emotional opposite of the feeling of worthlessness and disgrace associated with shame. Therefore, just as strength is the opposite of frailty, pride is the opposite of shame, logically completing the analogy.
