a weak portion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a weak portion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a part of something that is not strong or effective, such as an argument, a piece of writing, or a physical object. Example: "In the report, the analysis of the data was solid, but the conclusion presented a weak portion that lacked sufficient evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

On the morning of June 27, an area of enhanced thunderstorm activity was spotted just south of Ponape along a weak portion of the monsoon trough.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

No. 21 Nevada's emergence as a ranked opponent gives a weaker portion of the Broncos' schedule a little more weight.

The New York Times - Sports

Therefore, the faulty (or even the weak) portion(s) of the DUT can be identified.

Integration

Analyses of the 3D sensitivity maps show complementary properties of the new sensor, as by positioning the cylindrical sensor the combined sensitivity map can be more uniform and originally weak portion be enhanced.

Flow Measurement and Instrumentation

Further, pruning of old, damaged and weak portion of the tree encourages new growth which is healthier and stronger.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

It's observed that the vicinity of 30° angle between normal pressure and fiber direction at the entrance of hole is the weakest portion.

Materials & Design

While Mills' work in conveying these views is notable, Part One does appear to be the weaker portion of the book.

Johns Hopkins University

It has a weak point at the neck portion of the abutment, especially when it is used in the posterior region.

Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

On August 26, the wave split in two, with the northern portion leading the formation of a weak low in the Bay of Campeche and the southern portion continuing westward into the eastern Pacific.

Wikipedia

With the rain having turned from steady to torrential, a good portion of what was already a weak crowd had abandoned their seats, and then it got weird.

The Guardian - Sport

Around this time, a weak tropical depression made landfall along the western portion of the nation as well.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a weak portion" to describe an abstract concept like an argument or plan, ensure that you provide specific details about what makes that portion weak. This adds clarity and strengthens your overall statement.

Common error

While "a weak portion" is generally acceptable, it can sometimes sound informal or vague in very formal or academic writing. Consider stronger, more precise alternatives like "a deficient area" or "an unsupported claim" to enhance the sophistication of your prose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a weak portion" functions as a noun phrase, where "weak" modifies the noun "portion". It typically identifies a specific area or component that is deficient in strength, stability, or effectiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a weak portion" is a versatile phrase used to describe a part of something that lacks strength or effectiveness. While grammatically sound and commonly used, it's important to consider the context when choosing this phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across various domains, but highlights that more formal synonyms may be preferable in academic or professional settings. When using "a weak portion", ensure clarity by specifying what makes the portion weak, and be mindful of the overall tone of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a vulnerable segment

Replaces "weak" with "vulnerable", emphasizing susceptibility to harm or damage.

a fragile section

Substitutes "weak" with "fragile", highlighting the delicacy or easily broken nature of the portion.

a deficient area

Replaces "weak" with "deficient", focusing on the lack of necessary qualities or elements.

a compromised part

Substitutes "weak" with "compromised", suggesting that the portion has been impaired or damaged.

an underdeveloped element

Replaces "weak" with "underdeveloped", emphasizing a lack of growth or maturity in the portion.

a substandard component

Substitutes "weak" with "substandard", highlighting that the portion is below the required quality or standard.

a faulty piece

Replaces "weak" with "faulty", suggesting a defect or imperfection in the portion.

a softened area

Substitutes "weak" with "softened", useful when describing materials or areas that have become less rigid.

a yielding section

Replaces "weak" with "yielding", useful for describing something that gives way under pressure.

a frail segment

Substitutes "weak" with "frail", highlighting the delicacy of the portion.

FAQs

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

You can use "a weak portion" to describe any part of something that lacks strength or effectiveness. For example, "The chain broke at "a weak portion" due to metal fatigue" or "The argument failed because it relied on "a weak portion" of the evidence".

What are some synonyms for "a weak portion"?

Alternatives include "a vulnerable segment", "a fragile section", "a deficient area", or "a compromised part", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a weak portion" or "a weak part"?

While both are grammatically correct, "portion" often implies a more integral or significant part of a whole than "part" does. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is more formal, "a weak portion" or "an area of weakness"?

"An area of weakness" is generally considered more formal than "a weak portion". In academic or professional contexts, opting for the more formal phrase may be preferable. Consider using "a deficient area".