In the sentence "The wind is variable today", which option gives the best synonym for the word "variable" as it is used here?

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your vocabulary skills, especially your ability to choose the right synonym based on context. The word "variable" can have several meanings in different fields, such as mathematics or statistics, but here it appears in a simple weather related sentence. You must understand it in that everyday context rather than a technical one.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- Sentence: "The wind is variable today."
- The context is weather and wind conditions over a day.
- We are asked for a synonym of "variable" in this context.
- Options are mild, shifting, steady, chilling, and weak.

Concept / Approach:
When used to describe wind or weather, "variable" means changing in direction, speed, or strength, rather than remaining steady. It suggests that the wind is not constant, but keeps altering. Among the options, "shifting" is closest to this sense, because it clearly expresses the idea of change, especially change in direction or pattern.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on how "variable" is used with "wind", which hints at changes in conditions rather than temperature or intensity alone.
Step 2: Recall that "variable" in weather reports often means that wind direction or speed keeps changing throughout the day.
Step 3: Compare each option: "shifting" directly suggests changing direction; other options describe temperature, strength, or constancy.
Step 4: Select "shifting" as the option that best preserves the meaning of "variable" here.

Verification / Alternative check:
Test the synonym in the original sentence: "The wind is shifting today" makes sense and clearly tells us that the wind is not steady. If we use "mild", the sentence changes to "The wind is mild today", which focuses on strength, not change. "Steady" is nearly the opposite of "variable". "Chilling" talks about temperature, and "weak" refers to low strength, neither of which captures the idea of frequent change.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- mild: describes gentle strength or low intensity, not change over time.
- steady: suggests something that is constant, the opposite of "variable".
- chilling: focuses on making you feel cold and does not express variation.
- weak: means not strong; again, it does not say anything about change in direction or speed.

Common Pitfalls:
Many learners see "variable" and immediately think of "weak" or "mild" because they connect it with unfamiliar or less intense conditions. However, in weather descriptions, it is better to remember that "variable" is about change and unpredictability, not simply strength. Paying attention to context words like "wind" can guide you to the correct synonym.

Final Answer:
In this sentence, "variable" is best replaced by "shifting".