Is 'weak' formal or informal?

It is neutral. You can use it in speech, writing, and academic contexts.

What is the difference between 'weak' and 'fragile'?

'Weak' means lacking strength. 'Fragile' means easy to break or damage.

Can I use 'weak' for an argument?

Yes. A weak argument is not convincing and does not have enough support.

Is 'weak' a negative word?

Usually yes. It often suggests low strength, low quality, or poor ability.

← Dictionary

weak

/wiːk/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

If someone or something is weak, they do not have much strength, power, or force. It can describe a person, body, argument, signal, or effect.

I felt weak after the long illness.
The chair looks weak and unstable.
That argument is too weak to convince me.

Adinary Nuance

Weak is the plain, general word for low strength or low force. It is broader than 'feeble', which sounds more literary or old-fashioned. It is also different from 'fragile', which usually means easy to break, not simply lacking strength. In academic and business writing, 'weak' is common for arguments, evidence, systems, and results.

In other languages

Vietnamese: yếu
Spanish: débil
Chinese: 虚弱的
Japanese: 弱い
Korean: 약한

Etymology

Weak comes from Old English wāc, meaning 'lacking strength' or 'feeble'. It has been used in English since before the 12th century.

Common phrases

weak pointweak signalweak argumentweak tea

Synonyms

feeble frail faint powerless

Related words

strong fragile vulnerable fragility

Frequently asked questions

Is 'weak' formal or informal?: It is neutral. You can use it in speech, writing, and academic contexts.
What is the difference between 'weak' and 'fragile'?: 'Weak' means lacking strength. 'Fragile' means easy to break or damage.
Can I use 'weak' for an argument?: Yes. A weak argument is not convincing and does not have enough support.
Is 'weak' a negative word?: Usually yes. It often suggests low strength, low quality, or poor ability.