Which of the following is the correct pair of "Masculine and Feminine" genders?
Appeared in: GMCH - 2015
Explanation
This is the only option that presents a correct masculine and feminine pair for a single animal species.
A 'Gander' is the specific term for a male goose.
A 'Goose' is the specific term for a female goose, although the word is also used to refer to the species in general.
Why Other Options Were Wrong
Option A: This pair is incorrect because a 'chick' is a young chicken, not the female counterpart to a 'cock' (rooster).
Option B: This pair is incorrect because a 'bullock' is a castrated male bull or a young bull, not the female counterpart.
Option C: This pair is incorrect because a 'cub' is a young lion, not the female counterpart.
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Clinical Relevance
Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Masculine and Feminine Genders in English as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While not a clinical question, precision in language is a foundational skill for all professionals, including nurses. Using correct terminology prevents ambiguity and ensures clear communication.
Understanding specific terms is analogous to knowing the difference between similar-sounding drugs or procedures in a clinical setting.
What if the question asked for collective nouns? A group of geese on the ground is a 'gaggle', while a group in flight is a 'skein' or 'wedge'.
How to Approach the Question
Identify the core requirement of the question: to find a correct 'Masculine and Feminine' gender pair.
Evaluate each option by defining both terms in the pair.
Option A: 'Cock' is male, but 'chick' is young. Incorrect.
Option B: 'Bull' is male, but 'bullock' is a castrated or young male. Incorrect.
Option C: 'Lion' is male, but 'cub' is young. Incorrect.
Option D: 'Gander' is male, and 'Goose' is female. Correct.
Concept Tested & Keywords
Concept Tested: Masculine and Feminine Genders in English