analogy

Pronunciation: /əˈnælədʒi/

noun

Difficulty: common

Definition of analogy

A comparison between two things based on their similar features, often used to clarify or explain a concept by highlighting corresponding relationships.

Origin of analogy

Language of origin: Greek

Root word: analogia

Original meaning: proportion, correspondence

How it evolved: Originally used in mathematics to denote proportional relationships, it later evolved to describe comparisons and relationships in broader contexts.

The word 'analogy' derives from the Greek 'analogia', meaning proportion or correspondence, emphasizing the idea of a balanced relationship between two things.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember analogy

Think of analogy as 'a-n-ALike-logy' — it helps you log the similarities (ALike) between two things for better understanding.

Synonyms for analogy

  • comparison
  • correspondence
  • parallel
  • similarity
  • equivalence
  • resemblance
  • relation
  • similitude

Antonyms of analogy

analogy in a Sentence

  1. The professor used an analogy between the human brain and a computer to explain how memory functions.
  2. Her analogy comparing the structure of an atom to a solar system helped her classmates grasp the concept more easily.
  3. In his speech, the senator drew an analogy between the challenges of economic reform and climbing a steep mountain.

analogy in Literature & Culture

Analogies are widely used in literature and public speaking to clarify complex ideas or persuade audiences, from Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches to popular science writings by figures like Carl Sagan.

Usage Notes

While 'analogy' and 'metaphor' both describe comparisons, an analogy often explains a relationship in a logical or educational way, whereas a metaphor is more figurative and poetic.

Why analogy Matters for GRE & SAT

The word 'analogy' is frequently tested on the GRE, especially in reading comprehension and text completion questions, as the test often involves identifying logical relationships or parallels between ideas.

Word Family

analogous (adjective)
Similar in some way, often allowing for a comparison.
analogue (noun)
Something comparable to another in certain respects.
analysis (noun)
Detailed examination of the elements or structure of something.
analytically (adverb)
In a manner involving detailed logical analysis.

Did You Know?

  • The term 'analogy' plays a key role in Aristotelian logic and philosophy, where it was used to explain proportional reasoning.
  • Famous writers like C.S. Lewis and George Orwell often employed analogies to make complex ideas more accessible in their works.
  • Analogies are a favorite tool in standardized tests like the GRE, SAT, and LSAT to assess reasoning skills.
  • abate — decrease in intensity; lessen
  • aberrant — deviating from what is normal or expected
  • aberration — A departure from what is normal or expected
  • abet — assist or encourage, usually in wrongdoing
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abhor — detest or regard with deep hatred
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abject — most unfortunate or miserable

More Vocabulary Words Starting with A

  • abate — decrease in intensity; lessen
  • aberrant — deviating from what is normal or expected
  • aberration — A departure from what is normal or expected
  • abet — assist or encourage, usually in wrongdoing
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abhor — detest or regard with deep hatred
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abject — most unfortunate or miserable