generally weak

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally weak" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is typically lacking in strength, effectiveness, or impact. Example: "The team's performance was generally weak, leading to their loss in the championship game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Appetizers were generally weak.

The New York Times

However, their computer systems were "generally weak and ageing".

The Guardian

The Fed said the economy remained "generally weak".

The New York Times

Both stocks fell yesterday amid a generally weak market.

The New York Times

The nicer women are generally weak, even masochistic.

The New Yorker

Over all, first-quarter corporate earnings reports were generally weak but not worse than expectations.

The New York Times

While documentation was generally weak, the information provided … points to poor implementation".

The Guardian

But the problem is that state standards are generally weak, especially in math and science.

The New York Times

Financial stocks were generally weak, but the selling of brokerage stocks was particularly heavy.

The New York Times

After accounting for inflation and a generally weak dollar, it is a loss.

The New York Times

These fungi are generally weak pathogens, in that they usually invest only weak or damaged fruit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generally weak" to describe a condition, performance, or characteristic that is typically lacking in strength or effectiveness. For added precision, consider specifying the aspect in which something is "generally weak".

Common error

Avoid using "generally weak" as a sweeping judgment without providing specific examples or context. Always ensure that the assessment is supported by evidence or observation to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally weak" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. Ludwig shows that it attributes a quality of lacking strength, effectiveness, or force to the subject it describes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generally weak" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe something lacking strength or effectiveness. Ludwig provides numerous examples across diverse fields such as news, science, and business, confirming its versatility. Ludwig AI indicates it as completely usable. While the phrase is widely accepted, enhancing clarity by specifying the aspect of weakness is recommended. Related phrases such as "typically feeble" and "usually ineffective" offer alternative ways to convey a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typically feeble

Replaces "generally" with "typically" and "weak" with "feeble", suggesting a characteristic lack of strength.

usually ineffective

Focuses on the lack of effectiveness rather than strength, offering a slightly different perspective.

mostly ineffectual

Similar to "usually ineffective" but slightly stronger in conveying a lack of positive results.

ordinarily frail

Emphasizes physical weakness or delicacy, suitable for contexts involving health or physical objects.

commonly deficient

Highlights a lack of necessary qualities or components, applicable in contexts where something is lacking.

largely inadequate

Focuses on the insufficiency of something for a particular purpose.

predominantly vulnerable

Shifts the focus to susceptibility to harm or damage.

overall underwhelming

Expresses a lack of impressiveness or excitement, often used for performances or products.

regularly sub-par

Indicates that something is consistently below the expected standard.

somewhat unstable

Suggests a lack of stability or reliability, often used in technical or abstract contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "generally weak" in a sentence?

You can use "generally weak" to describe something lacking strength or effectiveness. For example, "The team's performance was generally weak", or "The economy is generally weak during the recession".

What can I say instead of "generally weak"?

You can use alternatives like "typically feeble", "usually ineffective", or "mostly ineffectual depending on the context.

Is it correct to say something is "generally weak", or should I be more specific?

While "generally weak" is grammatically correct, providing more specific details can enhance clarity and impact. For example, instead of "the evidence is generally weak", specify what makes the evidence weak.

What's the difference between "generally weak" and "somewhat unstable"?

"Generally weak" implies a lack of strength or effectiveness, while "somewhat unstable" suggests a lack of stability or reliability. The best choice depends on the specific context you're describing.