apparent weaknesses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apparent weaknesses" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe weaknesses that are visible or easily identifiable, often in a context of analysis or evaluation. Example: "The report highlighted several apparent weaknesses in the company's financial strategy that need to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Mr. Lang's apparent weaknesses are the consequences of his virtues.

The New York Times

The letter referred to "apparent weaknesses in the existing vetting system".

The New York Times

(There's been fresh discussion of some merits and apparent weaknesses in the work).

The New York Times

A similar thing can be said of autistic people — that apparent weaknesses (bluntness and obsessiveness, say) can also be marketable strengths (directness, attention to detail).

The New York Times - Magazine

With no apparent weaknesses in his game, and no question marks about his fitness or mental game, Djokovic had removed all the obstacles that were preventing him from being the best player in the world.

The New York Times

But Mr. Crane said that there were no apparent weaknesses in the Chinese offer, and that Governor Schwarzenegger particularly wanted to visit China this year for high-speed rail discussions.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

For abolitionists, the apparent weakness and timidity of the Africans served two purposes.

The Guardian

That apparent weakness is precisely what makes the residents of Springfield perfect for philosophy.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Suspicions were also raised about his apparent weakness in matchplay golf.

The Guardian - Sport

Smoking was her only apparent weakness; she loved it and you loved her for falling short of perfection.

The Guardian

"I have looked at videotape after videotape searching for an apparent weakness," the Giants' offensive coordinator, Sean Payton, said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apparent weaknesses", ensure you clarify whether these weaknesses are genuinely present or merely perceived, as 'apparent' implies a possibility of misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid treating "apparent weaknesses" as definitive flaws without thorough investigation. The term 'apparent' suggests a surface-level observation that may not reflect the complete picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apparent weaknesses" functions as a noun phrase, where 'apparent' modifies 'weaknesses'. It describes shortcomings that are easily noticeable but not necessarily real or significant. As Ludwig suggests, it is usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "apparent weaknesses" correctly identifies flaws that are easily seen but not necessarily genuine. According to Ludwig, it is usable in written English and finds frequent application across news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. When using the phrase, clarify if these weaknesses are genuine or merely perceived. Alternatives like "visible weaknesses" or "obvious weaknesses" can be used depending on the degree of certainty you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

visible weaknesses

Replaces "apparent" with "visible", emphasizing the ease of seeing the weaknesses.

obvious weaknesses

Uses "obvious" instead of "apparent", highlighting the clear and unmistakable nature of the weaknesses.

noticeable weaknesses

Substitutes "apparent" with "noticeable", indicating that the weaknesses are easily observed.

superficial weaknesses

Replaces "apparent" with "superficial", suggesting the weaknesses are on the surface and easily detected.

manifest weaknesses

Uses "manifest" to indicate that the weaknesses are clearly revealed or displayed.

discernible weaknesses

Emphasizes the ability to perceive or recognize the weaknesses.

conspicuous weaknesses

Highlights the striking and easily noticeable nature of the weaknesses.

palpable weaknesses

Suggests that the weaknesses are so evident they can almost be felt or touched.

evident shortcomings

Uses "evident" and "shortcomings" to convey easily seen flaws or deficiencies.

clear vulnerabilities

Replaces "weaknesses" with "vulnerabilities", emphasizing points of susceptibility that are easily observed.

FAQs

How can I use "apparent weaknesses" in a sentence?

You can use "apparent weaknesses" to describe flaws that are easily noticeable but may not be entirely accurate upon closer inspection. For example, "The team's "apparent weaknesses" were actually strengths when used strategically."

What are some alternatives to "apparent weaknesses"?

Alternatives include "visible weaknesses", "obvious weaknesses", or "superficial weaknesses", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "apparent" versus "obvious" when describing weaknesses?

"Apparent" suggests that the weaknesses are noticeable but possibly misleading, while "obvious" implies that the weaknesses are clear and undeniable. Choose "apparent" when there's a chance the weaknesses are not as significant as they seem.

What's the difference between "apparent weaknesses" and "hidden weaknesses"?

"Apparent weaknesses" are easily seen, while "hidden weaknesses" are not immediately noticeable and require investigation to uncover.