chief weakness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chief weakness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the most significant or primary flaw or limitation of a person, organization, or system. Example: "During the interview, I was asked to identify my chief weakness, and I mentioned my tendency to overthink decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

This mathematical quality is the book's chief weakness.

The New York Times - Books

The DPJ's electoral strategist, Yukio Edano, reckons Mr Abe himself is the government's chief weakness.

The Economist

And that, some Americans say, is the chief weakness of the infant councils.

The New York Times

The chief weakness of the book is the author's unconcealed contempt for the yellow press that Hearst helped create.

The Economist

Regardless, Mr Kerry might bypass Mr Edwards, whose chief weakness has been his short service in government, for a more experienced running mate.

The Economist

Her attacks on Barack Obama reflect, perhaps consciously mask, her own chief weakness: her actual record shows that she has not been able to deliver results.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Here, the chief weaknesses of the book become apparent.

The Guardian - Books

Its chief weaknesses were opposition from the high nobility and a thirst for revenge on Denmark.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is the chief reason why France's jobless rate has been stuck around 8-10% for so long.The current French model contains two chief weaknesses.

The Economist

Nathaniel Rakich, at his Baseballot blog, wrote that Mr. Romney's inability to connect with white, working-class voters would at least partially negate one of President Obama's chief weaknesses — an inability to connect with white, working-class voters.

The New York Times

Depositors acting on their own behalf would probably have resisted that trend and insisted on a more conservative and less "efficient" style of banking, which nonetheless had the considerable advantage of exposing their deposits to less risk.Be that as it may, moral hazard, which banks were invented to tame, has now become one of the chief weaknesses in the international financial system.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When identifying a "chief weakness", be specific and provide context. Instead of simply stating the weakness, explain how it manifests and its potential impact.

Common error

Avoid vague descriptions of a "chief weakness". Instead of saying "lack of experience", specify the type of experience lacking and the areas affected.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chief weakness" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for describing a primary deficiency.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "chief weakness" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that denotes the most significant deficiency or vulnerability. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely applicable across varied contexts. Primarily found in News & Media and Science, this term serves to highlight critical limitations. When using "chief weakness", ensure that the identified weakness is specific and contextually relevant to avoid overgeneralizations. Alternatives include "main shortcoming" or "primary disadvantage", depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main shortcoming

Focuses on a deficiency or failing, similar to weakness but can imply a lack of something.

primary disadvantage

Highlights the aspect that puts someone or something in an unfavorable position.

key vulnerability

Emphasizes susceptibility to harm or attack in a critical area.

biggest flaw

Points out the most significant imperfection.

major defect

Indicates a significant fault or imperfection, often in a tangible item or system.

principal failing

Highlights the primary area of failure or deficiency.

central limitation

Focuses on the most important restriction or boundary.

most significant drawback

Emphasizes the most considerable negative aspect.

greatest impediment

Highlights the most substantial obstacle.

fundamental liability

Focuses on a basic responsibility or debt that is a disadvantage.

FAQs

How can I use "chief weakness" in a sentence?

You can use "chief weakness" to describe the most significant failing or vulnerability of something. For example, "The project's "chief weakness" was the lack of adequate funding".

What phrases can I use instead of "chief weakness"?

Alternatives to "chief weakness" include "main shortcoming", "primary disadvantage", or "key vulnerability". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "main weakness" or "chief weakness"?

"Main weakness" and "chief weakness" are largely interchangeable. "Chief" implies a hierarchical importance, while "main" simply indicates the principal or most significant issue. Choose the word that best fits the tone and register of your writing.

What's the difference between a "weakness" and a "flaw"?

A "weakness" generally refers to a lack of strength or effectiveness, while a "flaw" implies a defect or imperfection. The "chief weakness" of a strategy might be insufficient resources, whereas the "biggest flaw" in a product design might be its aesthetic.