a relatively weak

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a relatively weak" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not very strong in comparison to others, often in contexts like analysis, critique, or comparison. Example: "The study presented a relatively weak argument for the proposed theory, lacking sufficient evidence to support its claims."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But he is a relatively weak figure.

The Economist

Exporters have benefited from a relatively weak currency.

The New York Times

It was a relatively weak joke about sexual promiscuity.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Dr. Dean also benefited from a relatively weak field.

The New York Times

Productivity is rising at a relatively weak pace.

The New York Times

Cuddyer has also benefited from a relatively weak field.

The New York Times - Sports

Instead, relief is a relatively weak predictor of sediment yield.

Earth-Science Reviews

Although strong in the United States, Kraft has a relatively weak international business.

The New York Times

A special attention, a special searching, may be necessary to reinforce a relatively weak physiological faculty.

The New Yorker

A relatively weak attempt to reform the civil service was finally passed by parliament in October.

The New Yorker

This is a country that has a strong state tradition, and a relatively weak civil society.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a relatively weak", ensure the context clearly establishes the basis for comparison. What is it weak relative to?

Common error

Avoid using "a relatively weak" without providing a clear reference point. For example, instead of saying 'The economy showed a relatively weak performance', specify 'The economy showed a relatively weak performance compared to last year's growth'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a relatively weak" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a lower degree of strength or effectiveness compared to a reference point. Ludwig's examples show its usage across a broad range of nouns, from 'figure' to 'joke'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a relatively weak" is a common and grammatically sound adjective phrase used to describe something that is not as strong or effective when compared to something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. With a high frequency of usage across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business, it maintains a neutral register suitable for objective reporting and analysis. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to specify the basis for comparison when using this phrase. While highly versatile, avoiding vague contexts will allow it to achieve maximum impact and clarity when writing. The examples that Ludwig provides are diverse, and this shows the versatility of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat fragile

Emphasizes the delicacy or vulnerability of something.

rather feeble

Suggests a lack of vigor or effectiveness.

slightly deficient

Highlights a lack of a necessary quality or element.

moderately impaired

Focuses on a reduced ability or function.

comparatively frail

Indicates weakness when compared to something else.

relatively unstable

Highlights a lack of stability.

not particularly robust

Emphasizes the absence of strength or resilience.

somewhat vulnerable

Highlights the susceptibility to harm or damage.

mildly ineffective

Focuses on the limited ability to produce a desired result.

a bit underwhelming

Suggests a lack of impressiveness or excitement.

FAQs

How can I use "a relatively weak" in a sentence?

Use "a relatively weak" to describe something that is not as strong, effective, or significant as something else. For example, "The team put up "a relatively weak defense" in the second half".

What's a more formal alternative to "a relatively weak"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "comparatively insufficient" or "moderately ineffective" to convey a similar meaning with increased sophistication.

Is it always necessary to specify what something is weak relative to when using "a relatively weak"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the comparison enhances clarity. For example, saying "a relatively weak signal compared to the noise" is more informative than just "a relatively weak signal".

What's the difference between "a relatively weak" and "a very weak"?

"A very weak" indicates an absolute assessment of extreme weakness. "A relatively weak", by contrast, implies a comparison to something else. For instance, "a relatively weak hurricane" might still be powerful, just less so than other hurricanes, while "a very weak signal" suggests an extremely faint signal regardless of comparison.