be in a weaker position

USAGE SUMMARY

"be in a weaker position" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to be at a disadvantage or to have less power or influence. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as business negotiations, sports competitions, or interpersonal relationships. Example: "During the salary negotiation, I realized that I was in a weaker position compared to the HR manager, who held all the power in determining my pay raise."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Who else is going to be in a weaker position in their bargaining, socially in our society?

Yale University

But when he assumes power on Dec. 1, some analysts say he will be in a weaker position than his PRI predecessors.

The New York Times

Unless they resolve this problem now, it's likely they will face problems later, when they will be in a weaker position".

The New York Times

Creditors – including UK banks such as RBS and Standard Chartered, as well as hedge funds – may be in a weaker position than they would be in the UK, which has a more creditor-friendly legal environment.

The Guardian - Business

Careers advisers said the handbook would mean clever pupils at comprehensives could no longer be in a weaker position to their peers in private schools when applying to leading universities, such as Oxbridge.

The Guardian

In addition, these losing cities may be in a weaker position to secure future corporate headquarters because Washington and New York have gained even more job opportunities, skilled workers and private-sector dollars.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Both candidates are anathema to David Cameron, who will be in a weak position in the politicking.

The Guardian

Cameron and the French president, François Hollande, led their parties to historic defeats at the hands of the extreme right in Britain and France and appeared to be in a weak position at the summit following the disastrous outcome.

The Guardian

Lieberman is considered to be in a weak position entering a possible 2012 run for reelection.

Huffington Post

Therefore, to be forced to explain complex biological phenomena that are of much importance for evolvability by applying high-level selection is to be in a weak position.

Biology Direct

Today the industry is in a weaker position to deal with new stresses.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be in a weaker position", clearly identify the factors contributing to the disadvantage, providing context for the situation.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the degree of disadvantage. Accurately assess the situation to prevent misrepresenting the actual impact of being in a weaker position.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be in a weaker position" functions as a predicative complement, describing the state or condition of the subject. Ludwig AI confirms that it is used to indicate a state of disadvantage or reduced power. It is most often followed by an explanation of factors causing weakness or disadvantage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be in a weaker position" effectively conveys a state of disadvantage or reduced influence, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While grammatically correct and versatile, its usage leans toward neutral to formal registers, primarily appearing in news, academic, and business contexts. When employing this phrase, ensuring clarity by specifying the factors contributing to the weakness is crucial. While alternatives like "be at a disadvantage" or "lack leverage" exist, "be in a weaker position" provides a balanced and readily understandable way to express comparative vulnerability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be at a disadvantage

This alternative directly indicates a state of being less favorably situated compared to others.

be in a less advantageous situation

This phrase emphasizes the situational aspect of being in a weaker position.

be in an unfavorable state

This option highlights the negative condition resulting from the weaker position.

find oneself vulnerable

This phrase emphasizes the susceptibility to harm or exploitation.

be on the back foot

This idiom suggests a defensive or reactive stance due to a disadvantage.

be under a handicap

This alternative explicitly states the existence of a limiting condition.

lack leverage

This option specifically refers to the absence of influence or bargaining power.

be second-rate

This alternative suggests inferiority in quality or status.

be submissive

This alternative emphasize compliance instead of strength.

be inferior

This word is used to show a lower position.

FAQs

How can I use "be in a weaker position" in a sentence?

You can use "be in a weaker position" to describe a situation where someone or something is at a disadvantage compared to others. For example, "During negotiations, the smaller company was "in a weaker position" because they lacked resources".

What are some alternatives to "be in a weaker position"?

Alternatives include "be at a disadvantage", "lack leverage", or "be vulnerable". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "be in a weaker position" or "be in a poor position"?

Both phrases are valid, but "be in a weaker position" often implies a comparison to others, while "be in a poor position" simply indicates an undesirable state. The better choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the relative disadvantage.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "be in a weaker position"?

It's appropriate when you need to describe someone's or something's reduced capacity to influence, compete, or defend themselves, especially in comparison to others. This could be in business, politics, sports, or personal relationships.