Degree is a synonym of Grade. Grade is related to Average. Average is related to Plain. Plain is a synonym of Usual. 
Bit is a synonym of Portion. Portion is related to Lip. Lip is related to Stiff. 
Degree <--Synonym--> Grade <--RelatedTo--> Average <--RelatedTo--> Plain <--Synonym--> Usual 
Bit <--Synonym--> Portion <--RelatedTo--> Lip <--RelatedTo--> Stiff 