As both a noun and a verb, faint refers to a brief loss of consciousness. As an adjective, faint means lacking in strength, conviction, clarity, or brightness. The noun feint refers to a mock attack or deceptive action meant to divert attention from one's real purpose.
Examples:
- Her voice was so faint that you could hardly hear it.
- A faint city breeze came through the window of her hospital room.
- The boxer grew bolder with every punch, every feint, every step.
Practice:
(a) I saw the _____ sheen of sweat on his face.(b) He scooted past the defender with a sly _____ and then kicked the ball into the net from seven yards.
(c) They had seen her cry before, but they had never seen her _____.
