English Reference
adjective

weaker

adj.
US /ˈwikɝ/ UK /wˈiːkɐ/ weak·er

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    having less physical strength, power, or health than another person or thing.

    possessing a lower degree of physical force, structural integrity, or biological health compared to a reference point.

    Simple

    The younger kitten was much weaker than its siblings and needed extra food.

    In context

    The bridge's foundations proved to be weaker than the original surveys suggested, necessitating an immediate suspension of heavy traffic.

    frailerfaintervulnerabler
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    describing an argument or idea that is not as easy to believe or support as another one.

    characterising an argument, evidence, or claim that lacks the persuasive force or logical grounding of a competing proposition.

    Simple

    His second excuse was even weaker than the first one he gave.

    In context

    The prosecution's case became significantly weaker after the primary witness admitted to having a poor memory of the events.

    flimsiershakier
    strongersturdiersounder
  3. 03 C1 Advanced TechnicalAcademic Math

    in logic, a statement that is easier to prove true because it says less than another statement.

    describing a proposition that is entailed by another but does not itself entail that other; it imposes fewer restrictions on possible outcomes.

    Simple

    The statement 'it might rain' is weaker than 'it will rain'.

    In context

    In formal logic, a weaker hypothesis is often preferred if it still allows the researcher to derive the necessary conclusions without overreaching.

    Usage

    Usually used in comparison to a 'stronger' claim or theorem.

    less restrictive
This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated