quite weak

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite weak" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks strength, effectiveness, or intensity, often in a comparative context. Example: "The argument presented in the debate was quite weak, failing to convince the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Reference

Social Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The leaders are quite weak.

The New York Times

"Hiring is still quite weak".

The New York Times

We look quite weak overall.

The Guardian - Sport

He described safeguards as "still quite weak".

The New York Times

The balancing mandate is quite weak.

Columbia University

That argument, however, is quite weak.

The New York Times

His low range was quite weak, often barked.

The New York Times - Arts

And once she did, she was quite weak and lethargic.

The New York Times

The bonds of sisterhood could be quite weak.

The New York Times - Books

"The recommendations are quite weak in a lot of areas.

The Guardian

'There is no backbone: they are quite weak as individuals.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "quite weak", ensure the context is clear. It's best used when comparing or contrasting the weakness to something else or to a previous state. For example, "The initial evidence was quite weak, but further investigation strengthened the case."

Common error

While "quite weak" is acceptable, in highly formal or academic writing, consider using more precise or impactful synonyms like "substantially undermined" or "noticeably deficient" to convey the intended degree of weakness more effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite weak" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a deficiency in strength, effectiveness, or intensity. As shown in Ludwig, it commonly describes arguments, evidence, or physical attributes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

29%

Science

27%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "quite weak" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that indicates a notable lack of strength or effectiveness. As Ludwig highlights, it appears across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academic writing. While broadly acceptable, it's important to consider the specific context and audience when choosing synonyms for greater precision. Ludwig's analysis confirms the phrase's versatility, while also suggesting more formal alternatives might be suitable for certain types of professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rather feeble

Implies a slightly stronger sense of weakness compared to "quite weak".

somewhat ineffective

Focuses on the lack of desired outcome or impact, instead of just weakness.

fairly flimsy

Suggests a lack of substance or durability, applicable to arguments or structures.

slightly fragile

Highlights the susceptibility to damage or failure.

moderately insufficient

Emphasizes the lack of necessary quantity or quality.

relatively undermined

Highlights being weakened gradually or insidiously.

noticeably deficient

Emphasizes the quality of something being noticeably below standard.

appreciably impaired

Focuses on diminished function or capability.

considerably reduced

Highlights the extent to which something has been made smaller or less.

substantially weakened

Suggests a significant decline in strength or effectiveness.

FAQs

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

You can use "quite weak" to describe something lacking strength or effectiveness. For example, "The argument presented was "quite weak" and didn't convince the jury."

What are some alternatives to saying "quite weak"?

Alternatives to "quite weak" include "rather feeble", "somewhat ineffective", or "fairly flimsy" depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "quite weak" or "very weak"?

Both "quite weak" and "very weak" are acceptable, but "very weak" indicates a higher degree of weakness. The choice depends on the precise shade of meaning you wish to convey.

In what contexts is the phrase "quite weak" most commonly used?

The phrase "quite weak" is commonly used in news and media, science, and general discussions to describe arguments, evidence, physical strength, or economic conditions.