GRE Vocabulary Builder

Answer: Choice (B) is correct.

In the first half of the analogy, pedantic and doctrinaire both mean to closely follow one’s teaching. They are synonymous, so look for the answer choice that contains synonyms. In choice (A), frugal means economical or thrifty, the opposite of extravagant, so eliminate that choice. In choice (C), imperturbable means calm, and not capable of being excited, so eliminate that choice. In choice (D), meretricious means alluring, but in a vulgar or flashy way, based on pretense or insincerity. Therefore, something that is meretricious is not praiseworthy, so eliminate choice (D). In choice (B), discrete means separate or distinct, so that is the correct answer.