critical weaknesses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "critical weaknesses" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe significant flaws or vulnerabilities in a system, process, or individual that could lead to failure or problems. Example: "The report highlighted several critical weaknesses in the security protocols that need to be addressed immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

There are critical weaknesses in intelligence, air defenses, artillery and logistics.

The New York Times

But even more, it suggests critical weaknesses in the Communist Party and its ability to govern the vast country.

The New York Times

Too often, reform programmes side step the critical weaknesses in the core design and operation of the children's protection and public care system.

The Guardian

Iraq's military has critical weaknesses in a number of areas, from air defenses to basic logistical tasks like moving food and fuel and servicing the armored vehicles it is inheriting from the Americans and the jets it is buying.

The New York Times

In a statement the auction house said the trip by the lawyers "will not change critical weaknesses in the government's case — most importantly, its reliance on hopelessly ambiguous French colonial decrees".

The New York Times - Arts

That these were not perfected in advance and mandated by law points to critical weaknesses in American political and regulatory systems, and to the fact that Americans continue to be willing to be held hostage to petroleum.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

However, it has a critical weakness, termed end-point constraints, which means that in the weak form, we cannot use the given initial conditions properly.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

Ms. DeWaal also identified the lack of product sampling as a "critical weakness in the program".

The New York Times - Food

For an initiative that's supposed to be demand-led, this could be a critical weakness.

The Guardian

Would a request for help be seen as a critical weakness?

The Guardian

And as far as correcting the critical weakness of the British economy went, the Thatcherites had a clear answer.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "critical weaknesses", be specific about the areas or aspects where these weaknesses are present to provide a clear understanding of the issue.

Common error

Avoid using "critical weaknesses" without specifying the context. Saying something has "critical weaknesses" without explaining what they are weakens your argument and leaves room for misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "critical weaknesses" functions as a noun phrase, where "critical" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "weaknesses". Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "critical weaknesses" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for denoting significant flaws or vulnerabilities. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It finds its primary usage in news, scientific and business contexts, emphasizing the need for attention and rectification. While alternatives like "major vulnerabilities" or "significant shortcomings" exist, the phrase's directness and clarity make it a valuable tool in formal and professional communication. When employing "critical weaknesses", specificity is key to ensure clear and impactful conveyance of the issues at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major vulnerabilities

Focuses on the aspect of being vulnerable or exposed to risk.

significant shortcomings

Highlights the inadequacies or deficiencies present.

key deficiencies

Emphasizes the lack of essential qualities or elements.

serious vulnerabilities

Emphasizes the severity of the vulnerabilities.

fundamental flaws

Indicates inherent defects in the basic structure or design.

major defects

Highlights significant imperfections or faults.

severe limitations

Focuses on the constraints or restrictions present.

glaring inadequacies

Emphasizes the obvious and easily noticeable lack of something.

pronounced vulnerabilities

Stresses the clear and distinct nature of the vulnerabilities.

substantial liabilities

Highlights the burdens or disadvantages present.

FAQs

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

You can use "critical weaknesses" to point out important shortcomings. For example: "The report highlighted several "critical weaknesses" in the security protocol".

What are some alternatives to "critical weaknesses"?

Alternatives include "major vulnerabilities", "significant shortcomings", or "key deficiencies", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "critical weaknesses"?

It's appropriate to use "critical weaknesses" when you need to emphasize significant vulnerabilities or deficiencies that could lead to serious problems or failures.

What's the difference between "critical weaknesses" and "minor flaws"?

"Critical weaknesses" refer to major issues that can have a significant impact, whereas "minor flaws" indicate smaller, less consequential imperfections.