significant weaknesses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant weaknesses" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe notable flaws or deficiencies in a person, system, or process. Example: "The report highlighted several significant weaknesses in the company's security protocols that need to be addressed immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Virtually all of our energy choices have big safety and environmental risks or significant weaknesses.

The Guardian - Opinion

There are, however, significant weaknesses and regional disparities in basic health systems.

The Guardian

Going into the campaign, Labour had three clear strengths and three significant weaknesses.

The Guardian

You've got to take on their weaknesses … and they've got significant weaknesses.

The Guardian - Sport

The potential Hillary slayers on the right all have significant weaknesses.

The Economist

Nonetheless, federal officials have acknowledged privately that Mr. Chang would probably have significant weaknesses in a courtroom.

The New York Times

As a work of architecture, the Getty complex possesses all of Meier's strengths and a few significant weaknesses.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile, a report by Ofsted on Bristol LEA said improvements had been made but it still had "significant weaknesses".

The Guardian

4. Andre Gurode, Cowboys (4) Awful in shotgun snaps, but he's a powerful player with no other significant weaknesses.

The New York Times

Investors seemed to welcome an observation by the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, J. Alfred Broaddus Jr., that the recovery still faced significant weaknesses.

The New York Times

It blamed "significant weaknesses" on its headteacher and executive head, noting inadequate standards of behaviour and divisions between the pupils of different ethnicity.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "significant weaknesses", be specific about the areas or aspects affected. Provide concrete examples to illustrate the extent and impact of these weaknesses.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of "significant weaknesses". While it's important to address them, ensure your language accurately reflects the severity and scope of the issue to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant weaknesses" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "significant" modifies the noun "weaknesses". It describes notable and important flaws or deficiencies in a subject. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "significant weaknesses" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for highlighting notable flaws or shortcomings. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and appropriate for written English. Its usage spans across various contexts, including news, science, and business, as evidenced by the examples provided. When using this phrase, specificity and context are key to effectively communicating the extent and impact of the identified weaknesses. Alternatives such as "major shortcomings" or "serious flaws" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Understanding the appropriate register and avoiding overstatement will ensure clear and credible communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major shortcomings

Emphasizes the inadequacy or deficiency in meeting a required standard.

serious flaws

Highlights the gravity or severity of the imperfections.

critical deficiencies

Underscores the importance and potential impact of the lacking elements.

notable limitations

Focuses on the constraints or boundaries that restrict effectiveness.

substantial defects

Highlights significant imperfections that impair functionality or quality.

considerable drawbacks

Emphasizes the disadvantages or negative aspects of a situation or system.

marked frailties

Stresses the inherent weaknesses or vulnerabilities present.

pronounced vulnerabilities

Highlights the susceptibility to harm or exploitation.

glaring imperfections

Emphasizes the obviousness and visibility of the flaws.

conspicuous limitations

Focuses on the readily apparent constraints that hinder progress or performance.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "significant weaknesses" in a sentence?

Use "significant weaknesses" to highlight notable flaws or shortcomings in a particular area. For example, "The audit revealed "significant weaknesses" in the company's financial controls."

What are some alternatives to using "significant weaknesses"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "major shortcomings", "serious flaws", or "critical deficiencies" to express similar meanings.

Is it redundant to say "very significant weaknesses"?

While not strictly redundant, "very significant weaknesses" can often be simplified to just ""significant weaknesses"" as 'significant' already implies a considerable degree of importance. Consider the context to decide if the added emphasis is necessary.

What's the difference between "significant weaknesses" and "minor weaknesses"?

"Significant weaknesses" indicate substantial flaws that can have a considerable impact, while "minor weaknesses" refer to smaller, less impactful issues. The choice depends on the severity of the problems you're describing.