Question

Which word does NOT belong with the others?
• Ignore
• Shrug off
• Spurn
• Disregard
• Bloom

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 3
• D. 4
• E. 5

Hint:

To solve these quickly, try to group the words into a single-word theme (e.g., "The Rejection Group"). If one word feels positive or constructive while the others are dismissive or negative, it is likely the odd one out.

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

Concept: In "Odd One Out" verbal reasoning problems, we identify the semantic relationship (meaning) shared by the majority of the words. The word that falls outside of this category or synonym group is the correct answer.

Step 1: Analyze the meanings of the words.
• Ignore: To refuse to take notice of or acknowledge.
• Shrug off: To dismiss something as unimportant.
• Spurn: To reject with disdain or contempt.
• Disregard: To pay no attention to; ignore. Words 1, 2, 3, and 4 are all synonyms related to the act of dismissal, rejection, or lack of attention.


Step 2: Evaluate the outlier.
• Bloom: To produce flowers; to flourish or grow. "Bloom" describes a process of growth or flowering, which has no relationship to the concept of dismissal or rejection shared by the other four words.