If '→' denotes increasing order of intensity, then the meaning of the words
[drizzle → rain → downpour] is analogous to [ ________ → quarrel → feud].
Which one of the given options is appropriate to fill the blank?

Analogy Reasoning: Identifying Increasing Intensity

The question presents an analogy based on the concept of increasing intensity.

- The first sequence, $drizzle\to rain\to downpour$, shows precipitation levels increasing in intensity from light (drizzle) to moderate (rain) to heavy (downpour).
- The second sequence, [ ________ → quarrel → feud ], must follow the same pattern of increasing intensity, but related to conflict or arguments.

Analyzing Conflict Intensity

We need to find a word for the blank that represents a lower level of conflict intensity than 'quarrel', just as 'drizzle' is less intense than 'rain'. Let's examine the options:

- bicker: To argue over trivial matters. This signifies a low-intensity disagreement.
- $bog$: To hinder or get stuck. Unrelated to arguments.
- $dither$: To hesitate or be indecisive. Unrelated to arguments.
- $dodge$: To evade or avoid. Unrelated to arguments.

Selecting the Correct Analogy Word

Comparing the intensity levels:

- Bicker (low intensity argument) → Quarrel (moderate intensity argument) → Feud (high intensity, prolonged conflict).

This sequence matches the pattern of increasing intensity established by the first sequence (drizzle → rain → downpour).

Therefore, 'bicker' is the appropriate word to fill the blank.