What is the difference between stalking and straining?

[Grasshopper]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #26 "The Ants and the Grasshopper", question 6

The grasshopper was so weak he was practically ......... because he hadn't eaten for ages.

(a) straining
(b) stalking
(c) starving
(d) streaming

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #26 "The Ants and the Grasshopper", answer 6

The grasshopper was so weak he was practically starving because he hadn't eaten for ages.

Correct answer: (c) starving
_________________________

what is the difference between stalking and straining?

Grasshopper

[Mister Micawber]

.
'Stalking' is a mode of locomotion; 'straining' is an exertion of effort. The two words are unrelated in meaning.
.
_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mr. Micawber