Word categorization as a function of stimulus presentation was examined by means of the Word Categorization Test, in a group of young adults. The results indicate (a) a minimal use of the phonetic similarity criterion, (b) a differential employment of semantic similarity and complementarity criteria depending upon the stimulus presentation procedure, (c) a significant sex difference, and (d) evidence of response patterning in one of the presentation conditions. The results are discussed in terms of their theoretical and methodological implications.