Which English verb best translates the idea of making something weaker (affaiblir, fragiliser)?

• A. To diminish
• B. To impair
• C. To degrade
• D. To weaken

Answer: (D)

The idea being tested is how to express reducing strength in English. Weaken is the best fit because it directly conveys making something less strong, more fragile, or less able to withstand stress. This is the natural, broad way to translate affaiblir or fragiliser.

Diminish might imply a reduction in amount or degree, not necessarily strength or resilience. Impair focuses on reducing function or ability, which can be close but is a bit more specialized. Degrade suggests a drop in quality or status, often with moral or ethical overtones, rather than simply becoming weaker. So, weaken captures the straightforward sense of reduced strength most accurately.