Weaker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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weaker
[ˈwiː.kər ]
Definitions
physical strength
Having less physical strength than average; not as strong as usual.
Synonyms
delicate, feeble, fragile, frail.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| weaker |
Typically used to compare strength, power, or ability, indicating lower resilience or less power.
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| frail |
Describes physical weakness or health issues, particularly in elderly people. It implies vulnerability and is often used with a compassionate tone.
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| feeble |
Describes lacking physical strength, often due to age or illness. It has a slightly negative connotation, implying weakness and fragility.
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| fragile |
Used to describe objects or systems that are easily broken or damaged. It can also metaphorically describe situations or relationships.
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| delicate |
Describes something that requires careful handling due to its fine texture or susceptibility to damage. Often used for subtle, intricate, or gentle things.
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Examples of usage
- He felt weaker after the flu.
- She became weaker as she grew older.
- I am feeling weaker today.
influence or power
Having less influence or power compared to others; less effective or forceful.
Synonyms
inferior, lesser, subordinate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| weaker |
Used when comparing physical strength, influence, or effectiveness in a particular aspect.
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| inferior |
Used to describe something or someone that is of lower quality, rank, or status. Often has a negative connotation.
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| subordinate |
Used to describe someone who is lower in rank or position, especially in a workplace or organizational hierarchy.
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| lesser |
Used to indicate that something is smaller in size, importance, or degree. Does not always have a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Our argument became weaker as we ran out of evidence.
- The company's weaker financial position led to layoffs.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychological terms, feeling weaker can relate to low self-esteem, where individuals often feel inadequate compared to others.
- The phenomenon of learned helplessness shows how repeated failures can lead individuals to feel weaker over time, hindering their ability to take action.
Literature
- In many literary works, characters may experience moments of weakness to highlight their humanity and struggles.
- The concept of overcoming weakness is a central theme in many hero's journeys, where protagonists emerge stronger after facing challenges.
Pop Culture
- Movies often portray a character's transition from weakness to strength, inspiring viewers with tales of resilience.
- Songs and lyrics frequently explore themes of emotional vulnerability, resonating with the idea of feeling weaker in relationships.
Health and Fitness
- Physical weakness can result from various factors, including illness, injury, or lack of exercise, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strength.
- Health professionals encourage strength training as a method to counteract feelings of weakness, promoting overall well-being.
Origin of 'weaker'
Main points about word origin
- This word comes from the Old English word 'weaca', which means 'to be weak or feeble'.
- The root 'weaken' evolved over time, initially describing physical strength but later expanded to include emotional and social aspects.
The word 'weaker' is a comparative form of the adjective 'weak'. It originated from Middle English 'weiker' and Old English 'wāc', meaning lacking in strength. Over time, the word evolved to its current form to describe something that has less strength, power, or influence compared to something else.
See also: weak, weaken, weakened, weakening, weakling, weakly, weakness, weaknesses.