What is a lightweight framework?

A lightweight framework is characterized by its minimalistic approach, which emphasizes simplicity and flexibility. This type of framework is designed to allow developers to create applications with fewer built-in constraints, enabling them to make design choices that best suit their specific needs. The flexibility offered by lightweight frameworks is particularly beneficial for developers who prefer to work more directly with the core technologies without the overhead of extensive built-in features or tightly coupled components.

In contrast, a framework with extensive built-in features tends to provide many capabilities out of the box, which can be advantageous for rapid development but may also restrict customization. A framework specifically designed for web applications caters to a narrow use case, and while it may be lightweight, it would not encompass the broader definition of a lightweight framework that can serve multiple types of applications. Lastly, a framework that requires significant resources is the opposite of a lightweight framework; such frameworks often come with a heavier footprint, which can hinder performance and scalability. Thus, the focus on minimalism and flexibility is what makes the choice of a lightweight framework the correct answer.