is substantially weaker

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is substantially weaker" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is significantly less strong or effective compared to another thing. Example: "The new model of the smartphone is substantially weaker in terms of battery life compared to its predecessor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

The material, reinforced carbon-carbon taken from the shuttle Discovery, is substantially weaker and less flexible than fiberglass.

The New York Times

But those negotiations met a warning from Senator Harry Reid of Nevada, the majority leader, who said he would not accept any bill that is substantially weaker than the one defeated in April.

The New York Times

For aluminum burning in water vapor, the optical signature of the particle is substantially weaker than in other environments, possibly indicating a primarily surface oxidation.

Combustion and Flame

However our empirical understanding of the reasons why particular DISTs are or are not used by different policy and management organisations, and the impacts they have on the work of those organisations is substantially weaker.

Environmental Modelling & Software

"Their version is substantially weaker than the House, and I don't think it looks good".

Huffington Post

Second, a Senate bill that is substantially weaker than Waxman-Markey will not survive a conference and could be opposed explicitly or implicitly by the White House with the argument that EPA's regulatory cap is a stronger environmental law.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

The aliphatic amines are stronger bases than ammonia, and the aromatic ones are substantially weaker.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Many had expected the panel, known by its acronym, Unmovic, to be substantially weaker than its predecessor, the United Nations Special Commission, known as Unscom.

The New York Times

Among these respondents, attitudes toward premarital sex were again associated with attitudes toward AIDS; this association was substantially weaker among those who did not recall Mr. Johnson.

The New York Times

"The claims data was substantially weaker than expected.

Forbes

We felt that the ecosystems outside the U.S. were substantially weaker, owing to the lack of available follow-on capital.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two items or concepts, use "is substantially weaker" to clearly indicate a significant difference in strength, impact, or effectiveness. This phrase is suitable for formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While "is substantially weaker" is generally versatile, avoid overusing it in casual conversation where simpler alternatives like "isn't as strong" or "is much weaker" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is substantially weaker" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It is used to describe something as having significantly less strength, power, or effectiveness than something else. Ludwig's examples showcase this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

71%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is substantially weaker" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a significant reduction in strength, effectiveness, or impact. Ludwig's analysis shows that it is considered correct and is commonly found in scientific and news media contexts. When writing, remember to use it to highlight notable differences, but be mindful of simpler alternatives in casual settings. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is versatile and clearly conveys a considerable contrast.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is significantly less potent

Emphasizes a considerable reduction in power or effectiveness.

is considerably less effective

Highlights a notable decrease in achieving the desired outcome.

is markedly less robust

Focuses on the reduced resilience or durability.

is appreciably less forceful

Draws attention to a visible decline in intensity or impact.

is notably less vigorous

Suggests a distinct loss of energy or intensity.

is plainly not as powerful

Uses a more direct and straightforward comparison of strength.

is discernibly less intense

Highlights a clear reduction in the degree or level of something.

pales in comparison

Uses figurative language to express a significant difference in strength or quality.

doesn't hold a candle to

An idiomatic expression indicating a large disparity in quality or strength.

lacks the punch

Informal idiom suggesting a deficiency in impact or effectiveness.

FAQs

How can I use "is substantially weaker" in a sentence?

You can use "is substantially weaker" to compare the relative strength or effectiveness of two things. For example, "The new policy "is substantially weaker" than the previous one in addressing climate change."

What are some alternatives to "is substantially weaker"?

Alternatives include "is significantly less potent", "is considerably less effective", or "is markedly less robust", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "is substantially weaker" in formal writing?

Yes, "is substantially weaker" is appropriate for formal writing. It clearly and precisely conveys a significant difference in strength or effectiveness, making it suitable for academic, professional, and journalistic contexts.

What's the difference between "is substantially weaker" and "is slightly weaker"?

"Is substantially weaker" indicates a significant and noticeable difference in strength or effectiveness. On the other hand, "is slightly weaker" suggests a minor and less pronounced difference.