least strong

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "least strong" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the strength or intensity of something, indicating that it is the weakest among a group. Example: "Of all the arguments presented, his was the least strong, lacking sufficient evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

All were at the least strong results, and perhaps records.

The New York Times

But the rambling last movement, perhaps the trio's least strong, sounded great in this brassy, splashy and tumultuous orchestral version.

The New York Times - Arts

Dr. Koenig said this and other studies suggested links between religion and health that were at least strong enough to warrant further study.

The New York Times - Health

God I love this band, although if I'm being honest I reckon Do You Like Rock Music? is the least strong of their three albums.

The Guardian - Music

The Wiegele company insists that guests be at least "strong intermediates," able to ski in deep snow and back-country terrain.

The New York Times - Magazine

Such small, high value-added, products benefit greatly from ready access to airports.Beijing's aerotropolis also has built-in advantages, not least strong support from the central government.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Will having a strong, or at least strong-ish, currency matter?

Independent

The argument is rubbish, but, in all fairness, it is at least stronger than the argument that sport brings people together in harmony and communal celebration.

The Guardian - Opinion

hinting that they want a more realistic punishment for colleges that violate Title IX, or at least stronger incentives to follow the law.

Huffington Post

Among these, 9 (52.9%) reported having at least 1 strong link with another MDR TB patient, and 4 MDR TB patients (23.5%) reported having at least 2 strong links with another MDR TB patient.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

The feelings for Palestinians, however, are at least as strong.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "least strong" when comparing the relative strength of multiple items or options, particularly when a more direct synonym like "weakest" feels too absolute.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "least strong" can sometimes sound overly formal or convoluted. Consider whether a simpler term like "weakest" or "mildest" would be more appropriate for your audience and context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least strong" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun to indicate that it possesses the lowest degree of strength relative to other entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "least strong" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjective phrase for indicating the lowest level of strength in a comparison. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While the synonym "weakest" can often be substituted, "least strong" is particularly useful when subtly differentiating among multiple options. It appears frequently in science and news media, maintaining a neutral register. When writing, it's advisable to check if simpler alternatives are more suitable for the context, avoiding unnecessary formality. While it appears in different contexts, it's useful to keep in mind that is more useful in situations where an understatement or the possibility of strength existing is important.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weakest

This is a direct synonym, indicating the lowest level of strength.

least powerful

Directly contrasts with powerful, indicating minimal influence or force.

relatively weak

This phrase specifies that the weakness is in comparison to something else.

least robust

Suggests a lack of resilience or durability.

feeblest

Implies a lack of vigor or effectiveness.

most fragile

Emphasizes vulnerability and susceptibility to damage.

not very potent

Focuses on the ineffectiveness or lack of power.

mildest

Indicates a reduced intensity or severity.

lightest

Refers to a reduced weight or impact.

smallest

Implies a minimal size or quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "least strong" in a sentence?

You can use "least strong" to compare the relative strength of multiple items. For example: "Among the available options, this is the "least strong" choice."

What are some alternatives to "least strong"?

Alternatives to "least strong" include "weakest", "mildest", or "least powerful", depending on the context.

Is "least strong" the same as "weakest"?

While similar, "least strong" implies a comparison among multiple options, whereas "weakest" simply denotes the lowest level of strength. "This argument is the "least strong" of the three" versus "This is the "weakest" argument I've heard."

Which is correct: "least strong" or "less strong"?

"Least strong" is used when comparing three or more items, while "less strong" is used when comparing only two. For example, "Of the three coffees, this one is the "least strong"", but "This coffee is "less strong" than that one."