faint
word
Definition
Faint can describe something that is weak, light, or difficult to notice, such as a sound, smell, or mark. It can also mean to suddenly lose consciousness for a short time.
Usage & Nuances
As an adjective, it often collocates with 'sound', 'smell', 'hope', 'line', and 'heartbeat'. As a verb, the usual pattern is 'faint from/after' something, and in everyday speech people often say 'pass out' instead. Don't confuse it with 'feint', which means a fake movement.
Example Sentences
I heard a faint sound in the next room.
basic
There is a faint smell of smoke here.
basic
She felt sick and almost fainted.
basic
At that point, we still had a faint hope that things would improve.
natural
I could see a faint line on the test, but it was hard to tell.
natural
He fainted from the heat, so we called an ambulance right away.
natural