feeble as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feeble as" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare something's weakness or ineffectiveness to another object or concept, often in a simile. Example: "His argument was feeble as a whisper in a storm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Are Europeans really as feeble as he asserts?

The Economist

"Thanks," I mumbled, feeling feeble, as we pulled free.

The New York Times - Travel

This being the north east, Riley's don't do anything as feeble as seasonal opening.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As feeble as fleeing Bull Run made me feel, the hobby has toughened me up.

The New York Times

In January 1862, he wrote, "McClellan is either feeble as a reed, or a bad man".

The New York Times

But its regional influence in 2000 was almost as feeble as its economy.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Both Theodore Roosevelt and Churchill desired the neutering of the "feeble-minded", as was the parlance in Edwardian days.

The Guardian

But if you really want sordid muppets, you should check out Meet the Feebles, or as much of it as you can stomach.

Vice

"Interview 3" The parents' reactions were feeble, and not as strong as what the adolescents had expected.

BMC Public Health

"Page's interest in occult ritual is so serious and longstanding it would be facile to suggest anything as feeble-minded as a pact with the Devil".

Los Angeles Times

Vázquez is nearly as feeble a batter as León, and, in the fourth inning, it seemed like a mismatch when Vázquez faced the hard-throwing Yankees reliever Zach Britton.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feeble as" to create vivid comparisons, highlighting the degree of weakness or ineffectiveness relative to something else. This adds depth and imagery to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "feeble as" in contexts where a stronger term is needed. Overusing it can dilute the impact, so reserve it for situations where the weakness is a key characteristic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feeble as" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to describe something by likening its weakness or ineffectiveness to something else. Ludwig examples show its use across various contexts to emphasize a lack of strength or impact.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "feeble as" is a common and grammatically correct comparative phrase used to emphasize the weakness or ineffectiveness of something. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its frequent appearance in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science contexts. While direct synonyms like "weak as" or "frail as" exist, "feeble as" often carries a slightly stronger connotation. To ensure effective writing, remember to reserve "feeble as" for situations where the weakness is a key characteristic to avoid diluting its impact. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted and understood, making it a valuable tool for descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Weak like

Emphasizes a direct comparison of weakness, simpler in structure.

Frail as

Focuses on physical delicacy or fragility in the comparison.

Powerless like

Highlights a lack of power or influence, shifting the context slightly.

Ineffective as

Emphasizes a lack of effectiveness or success.

Helpless as

Stresses an inability to act or assist oneself, focusing on dependence.

Vulnerable like

Highlights susceptibility to harm or attack, changing the emphasis.

Defenseless as

Focuses on the lack of defense or protection.

Fragile like

Similar to 'frail as', but can also refer to objects or systems.

Tenuous as

Implies a lack of substance or strength, often in a metaphorical sense.

Delicate like

Suggests a need for careful handling or treatment due to weakness.

FAQs

How can I use "feeble as" in a sentence?

You can use "feeble as" to compare the weakness of one thing to another, such as "His excuse was as "feeble as" a newborn kitten".

What's a synonym for "feeble as"?

Synonyms include phrases like "weak as", "frail as", or "powerless as", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "feeble as"?

Yes, the phrase "feeble as" is grammatically sound and commonly used to make comparisons, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

What's the difference between "feeble as" and "weak like"?

"Feeble as" and "weak like" are similar, but "feeble as" often suggests a more pronounced lack of strength or effectiveness, while "weak like" can be a more general comparison.