Word: Feeble
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: The word "feeble" describes something that is weak, lacking strength, energy, or effectiveness. It can refer to physical strength, but it can also describe arguments, excuses, or attempts that are not convincing or strong.
Usage Instructions: You can use "feeble" to describe a person who is weak (like someone elderly or sick), a voice that is quiet and shaky, or an excuse that isn’t very good. It often has a negative connotation, meaning it suggests that something is inadequate or disappointing.
Examples: 1. The feeble old man struggled to climb the stairs without help. (Here, "feeble" describes his physical weakness.) 2. She gave a feeble excuse for being late, saying she lost track of time. (In this case, "feeble" describes the excuse as weak or not convincing.) 3. His feeble attempt to lift the heavy box made everyone laugh. (This shows that his effort was not strong enough.)
Advanced Usage: In literature or formal writing, "feeble" can be used to describe not just physical weakness, but also emotional or intellectual weakness. For example, a character in a story might show feeble courage if they are afraid to confront a challenge.
Word Variants: - Feebleness (noun): The state of being feeble. Example: The feebleness of his argument made it easy to dismiss. - Feebly (adverb): In a weak manner. Example: She feebly protested against the decision.
Different Meanings:While "feeble" primarily means weak, it can also convey a sense of being ineffective or lacking in force, such as a "feeble attempt" meaning an effort that is unlikely to succeed.
Synonyms: - Weak - Fragile - Frail - Ineffective - Delicate - Insipid (when referring to lack of force in arguments or excuses)
Idioms: There aren’t specific idioms that use "feeble," but you might hear phrases like "a weak link," which conveys a similar meaning.
Phrasal Verbs: There are no direct phrasal verbs with "feeble," but you could use related phrases, such as "fall flat," which means to fail completely, similar to a feeble attempt or performance.