rather weak

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both structures are now rather weak.

The Guardian - Opinion

My right arm is rather weak.

The Guardian

"Even its music was rather weak".

The New York Times - Arts

The signal, meant to be cautionary, seems rather weak.

The New Yorker

And top to bottom, the Belmont field looks rather weak.

The New York Times

Many analysts say the case is rather weak.

The New York Times

"Bertelsmann is rather weak," said Carsten Schmidt, an analyst for Forrester Research in Amsterdam.

The New York Times

'A Rather Weak Case' Mr. Padilla flew through Zurich once more.

The New York Times

Science can seem rather weak in comparison to the certainties religion offers.

The Guardian

8.26am GMT Confirmation that Spain's recession is over, and that its recovery is rather weak.

The Guardian - Business

This consideration appears to be rather weak.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rather weak" to describe an argument or evidence, provide specific reasons why it is considered weak. This adds credibility and strengthens your analysis.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is "rather weak" without providing supporting evidence or explanation. Back up your assessment with concrete details to make your critique more persuasive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rather weak" primarily functions as an adjectival modifier, used to describe the degree to which something lacks strength, effectiveness, or intensity. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a descriptor indicating a deficiency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "rather weak" functions as an adjectival modifier to express an assessment that something lacks strength or effectiveness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, especially in scientific and news contexts. Its neutral register makes it adaptable to both formal and informal communication. While the phrase is versatile, it is important to provide specific supporting details as to why you consider something “rather weak” to enhance the clarity and impact of your writing. Alternatives such as "somewhat feeble" or "fairly flimsy" may provide slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat feeble

Implies a lack of vigor or strength, similar to "rather weak" but perhaps suggesting a more pronounced deficiency.

fairly flimsy

Suggests a lack of substance or solidity, similar to "rather weak" in terms of lacking robustness.

relatively tenuous

Indicates a connection or argument that is thin and easily broken, mirroring "rather weak" in its instability.

comparatively frail

Emphasizes the delicate or fragile nature of something, akin to "rather weak" in its susceptibility to damage.

moderately inadequate

Highlights the insufficiency or unsuitability of something, reflecting the "rather weak" level of effectiveness.

kind of deficient

Points out a lack or shortage, similar to "rather weak" in terms of not meeting the required level.

slightly impaired

Suggests a reduced ability or quality, like "rather weak" it indicates a compromised state.

a bit unconvincing

Highlights the lack of persuasiveness, akin to "rather weak" when referring to an argument or case.

somewhat vulnerable

Suggests a state of being easily harmed or affected, similar to "rather weak" in terms of lacking protection.

marginally ineffective

Emphasizes the lack of desired result, like "rather weak" it shows a limited success.

FAQs

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

You can use "rather weak" to describe something lacking strength, intensity, or effectiveness. For example, "The evidence presented was "rather weak", failing to convince the jury."

What are some alternatives to "rather weak"?

Alternatives include "somewhat feeble", "fairly flimsy", or "relatively tenuous", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "rather weak" in formal writing?

Yes, "rather weak" is generally acceptable in formal writing, although more precise or nuanced language might be preferred depending on the context and desired level of formality. Consider alternatives like "moderately inadequate".

What does it mean when someone describes an argument as "rather weak"?

It typically means the argument lacks sufficient evidence, logical reasoning, or persuasive power to be convincing. It suggests that the argument is easily refutable or does not hold up under scrutiny.