Choose the word that means to decrease gradually in power, especially a political or social influence.

• A. Expand
• B. Dwindle
• C. Wane
• D. Improve

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is a gradual loss of power or influence. That sense is captured most naturally by the word that means to lessen in strength or importance over time, especially when talking about political or social influence. So, to say that support or authority begins to fade or diminish fits the idea of waning. For example, you might say public support began to wane after the scandal, which conveys a slow, ongoing decline in influence.

Expand and improve are opposite ideas, focusing on growth or getting better. Dwindle can also mean to decrease gradually, but it’s more commonly used for quantities, amounts, or resources rather than influence; for political or social influence, waning is the standard expression.