Which of the following is true regarding Upamāna as a means of knowledge according to Nyaya school?
(A) It is knowledge derived from comparison.
(B) It roughly corresponds to analogy.
(C) It is defined as knowledge of the relation between a word and its denotation.
(D) It is a kind of anumana (inference).
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

It is knowledge derived from comparison (A): This statement is true. In the Nyaya school, Upamāna (comparison) is a valid means of knowledge ( pramāṇa) used to understand something by comparing it to something already known.
It roughly corresponds to analogy (B): This statement is true. Upamāna is closely related to analogy or comparative reasoning. For instance, learning about a wild ox by comparing it with a known cow helps generate knowledge.
It is defined as knowledge of the relation between a word and its denotation (C): This statement is true. Upamāna helps in understanding the relationship between a word and its meaning through comparison. This is useful when learning new terms or entities by linking them to known concepts.
Information Booster 1. Nyaya School: One of the six classical Indian schools of philosophy focusing on logic, epistemology, and systematic reasoning.
2. Pramāṇas (Means of Knowledge): In the Nyaya system, there are four primary pramāṇas:
· Pratyaksha (Perception)
· Anumana (Inference)
· Upamāna (Comparison)
· Shabda (Verbal Testimony)
3. Upamāna (Comparison): Helps gain knowledge by comparing unfamiliar objects with familiar ones.
4. Example of Upamāna: If someone knows a cow and is told a wild ox resembles a cow, upon seeing the wild ox, they recognize it due to the comparison.
Additional Knowledge
Anumana (Inference): Unlike Upamāna, Anumana involves reasoning based on premises and conclusions. An example is deducing fire from smoke.