Choose the word nearest in meaning to the italicized part: Grandmother has been getting feeble of late

Question

Choose the word nearest in meaning to the italicized part:

Grandmother has been getting feeble of late

1. A. tall
2. B. weak (Correct answer)
3. C. strong
4. D. small

Correct Answer

Option B — weak

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is weak.

Key Points

• Feeble means lacking physical strength, especially through age or illness — so weak is the closest synonym.
• Strong is its direct opposite, and tall and small describe size rather than strength.

Additional Information

• *Feeble* extends beyond the physical: a feeble excuse or a feeble argument is unconvincing, and a feeble light is faint.
• Synonyms worth grouping: frail, infirm, decrepit, debilitated, enervated; antonyms include robust, sturdy, vigorous, hale.
• Note feeble-minded, an older and now offensive term, and the verb enfeeble, meaning to weaken.