personal weaknesses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "personal weaknesses" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing individual flaws or areas for improvement, often in contexts like self-assessment, interviews, or personal development. Example: "During the interview, I was asked to identify my personal weaknesses and how I plan to address them."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Disses - You want to diss your opponent on broad topics (how they dress, speak, spit, look, walk, talk, and act) as well as personality (their past, their lifestyle, and other personal weaknesses).

WikiHow

Despite Catherine's personal weaknesses, she was above all a ruler.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These personal weaknesses left a sense of lost opportunity.

The New York Times

The Greeks were also more comfortable than we with the personal weaknesses of their leaders.

The New York Times

Depression was recognized as the result of life stressors and personal weaknesses.

Archives of Psychiatric Nursing

His movies often addressed social problems and personal weaknesses like corruption, terrorism and drug addiction.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

"The government found a personal weakness.

The New Yorker

In every episode, she fishes out a personal weakness that escapes her male colleagues.

The New York Times - Arts

Sociability with strangers was her personal weakness and his professional stock in trade.

The New Yorker

If someone is unwell, it is not a sign of personal weakness.

The Guardian

Part of the essence of sport is the incorporation of personal weakness, and adaptation to stressful circumstances.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Frame "personal weaknesses" as opportunities for growth. Demonstrate self-awareness and a proactive approach to addressing these areas.

Common error

Avoid vague statements about your "personal weaknesses". Provide specific examples and explain how you are actively working to improve them to demonstrate self-awareness and commitment to growth.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "personal weaknesses" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'personal' acts as an adjective modifying 'weaknesses'. It refers to the flaws or shortcomings specific to an individual. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which show the phrase used as a subject or object in sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

15%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "personal weaknesses" is a commonly used and grammatically correct term for describing an individual's shortcomings or areas needing improvement. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples shows its prevalence across diverse contexts, including news, academic writing, and general discussions of self-improvement. While frequently used, it is recommended to be specific when discussing "personal weaknesses", framing them as opportunities for growth rather than as inherent flaws. Alternatives such as "individual flaws" or "areas for improvement" may be suitable depending on the context. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is suitable for use in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

individual flaws

Focuses more directly on specific faults within a person's character or abilities.

weak points

A direct and simple way to refer to areas of deficiency.

character defects

Implies moral or ethical shortcomings.

shortcomings

A general term for deficiencies or failings.

areas for improvement

A more positive and constructive way to refer to weaknesses, especially in a professional context.

negative traits

Focuses on specific aspects of personality that are undesirable.

limitations

Highlights restrictions or constraints in ability or performance.

vulnerabilities

Emphasizes susceptibility to harm or exploitation due to specific weaknesses.

personal frailties

Suggests a delicate or fragile aspect of one's character.

personal liabilities

Implies that weaknesses are a burden or disadvantage.

FAQs

How can I identify my "personal weaknesses"?

Reflect on past experiences, ask for feedback from trusted sources, and consider using self-assessment tools or personality tests.

What's the best way to discuss "personal weaknesses" in an interview?

Choose a genuine weakness that isn't critical for the role, explain how you're addressing it, and focus on the positive outcomes of your efforts. Frame them as "areas for improvement".

What are some alternatives to saying "personal weaknesses"?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "individual flaws", "shortcomings", or "areas for improvement".

Is it okay to admit "personal weaknesses"?

Yes, acknowledging and addressing your weaknesses is a sign of self-awareness and maturity. It demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow.