grow weak

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "grow weak" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example: The effects of the virus began to grow weak after several weeks.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

It would suggest that empires grow strong only because powers around them grow weak, and that imperial stability is more a function of that continuing weakness than it is of factors exceptional and special to the global power itself.

Huffington Post

But an oversecured tree can grow weak.

The New York Times

With less money for food, even the uninfected grow weak.

The Economist

People grow weak and achy with this treatment, as if they had the flu for months.

The New York Times - Health

The way you study physics makes my heart grow weak; When you translate "Principia Mathematica," I can barely speak.

The New Yorker

Not only is Juanes huge in the Spanish-speaking world, he is also the kind of singer who makes women of all ages grow weak in the knees.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Persistent viruses tend to grow weaker over the years.

The New Yorker

China does basically whatever it wants, while we grow weaker and they grow stronger".

The New York Times

Yet, as precious campaign time ticks away, Mr. Rice's candidacy seems to grow weaker.

The New York Times

"The opposition continues to make substantial gains on the ground while his forces grow weaker".

The New York Times

As the moon recedes, it will, of course, have less power over the tides, and they will grow weaker.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "grow weak" to describe a process, consider the specific aspect of weakening you want to emphasize. For example, use "grow weak" for physical strength and "grow vulnerable" for emotional or strategic positions.

Common error

Avoid using "grow weak" in contexts where a more precise or nuanced term would be more appropriate. Overusing it in overly dramatic scenarios can weaken the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grow weak" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as a predicate in a sentence. It describes a process of becoming weaker, less potent, or less effective. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in expressing a gradual decline in strength or condition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

27%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grow weak" is a versatile expression used to describe a decline in strength, power, or effectiveness. As Ludwig AI validates, it is grammatically sound and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki sources. The phrase serves to describe a state of diminishing strength and has a neutral register, making it appropriate for diverse settings. Related phrases include "become feeble" and "lose strength", each with its own nuanced meaning. When using "grow weak", consider the specific aspect of weakening you want to emphasize to choose the most fitting term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become feeble

Emphasizes a gradual loss of physical strength or vitality.

lose strength

Focuses directly on the reduction of physical power.

decline in health

Specifically refers to a deterioration of physical well-being.

deteriorate

Indicates a general decline in condition or quality.

fail

Suggests a complete loss of effectiveness or ability to function.

wither

Implies a gradual decay, often associated with plants or living organisms.

ebb

Suggests a gradual decline or reduction, similar to the receding tide.

diminish in power

Highlights the reduction of influence or control.

fade

Implies a gradual loss of color, brightness, or strength.

languish

Suggests a state of weakness, suffering, or decline.

FAQs

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

You can use "grow weak" to describe a gradual loss of strength, power, or health. For example, "The old man began to "grow weak" as the illness progressed".

What's a more formal alternative to "grow weak"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "deteriorate in health" or "decline in strength" for a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "grow weak" or "grow weaker"?

While both are grammatically correct, "grow weaker" is generally used to indicate a comparative change over time, whereas ""grow weak"" describes a state of being.

What does it mean when someone says their resolve "grows weak"?

When someone's resolve "grows weak", it means their determination or commitment to something is diminishing, often due to challenges or discouragement.