strength and weakness

USAGE SUMMARY

'strength and weakness' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the qualities, traits or abilities of someone or something. For example: "My daughter's strength and weakness lies in math and English, respectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's strength and weakness.

The New York Times - Sports

It's my greatest strength and weakness.

The Guardian

Schwinn became both Giant's strength and weakness.

The New York Times

"And that is both a strength and weakness.

The New York Times - Arts

Her refusal to compromise was both her strength and weakness.

The Guardian

Amy's case illustrates the strength and weakness of neonatal care.

The Guardian

This level of individualism was both Rome's strength and weakness.

The Guardian

That retro approach is Tembo's greatest strength – and weakness.

The Guardian - Tech

It's both the strength and weakness of Islam.

The New York Times

This story illustrates the strength and weakness of "Stroheim".

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Yeung's strength and weakness is his territory.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strength and weakness" to provide a nuanced evaluation, showing a comprehensive understanding of a subject.

Common error

Avoid focusing solely on either the strength or the weakness. A balanced analysis provides more value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strength and weakness" functions as a noun phrase that identifies qualities possessing both positive and negative attributes. Ludwig examples showcase its use in evaluating various subjects, such as personal traits, strategies, and features.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strength and weakness" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express a balanced evaluation of attributes, characteristics, or qualities. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Science, indicating its versatility across different registers. To ensure comprehensive analysis, avoid overemphasizing either strength or weakness. Alternatives include "advantages and disadvantages" and "pros and cons". By following best practices, you can effectively utilize "strength and weakness" to provide nuanced insights in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capabilities and limitations

Refers to what someone or something is able and unable to do.

upsides and downsides

Highlights the favorable and unfavorable elements.

advantages and disadvantages

Focuses on the benefits and drawbacks of something.

positives and negatives

General terms for good and bad aspects.

pros and cons

A more concise way to list positive and negative aspects.

pluses and minuses

Emphasizes the positive and negative effects.

good points and bad points

Simple and direct way to express strengths and weaknesses.

assets and liabilities

Uses financial terms to describe positive and negative attributes.

merits and demerits

Highlights praiseworthy and blameworthy qualities.

virtues and vices

Focuses on moral strengths and weaknesses.

FAQs

How can I use "strength and weakness" in a sentence?

You can use "strength and weakness" to describe characteristics, attributes, or qualities that have both positive and negative aspects. For example, "His dedication to detail is both a "strength and weakness" because it ensures accuracy but also slows down his work."

What are some phrases similar to "strength and weakness"?

Alternatives include "advantages and disadvantages", "pros and cons", and "capabilities and limitations", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to list multiple strengths or weaknesses after using the phrase "strength and weakness"?

No, it is not redundant. The phrase "strength and weakness" introduces the idea of both positive and negative aspects. Listing specific strengths and weaknesses provides further detail and clarity.

How does the connotation of "strength and weakness" differ from "advantages and disadvantages"?

"Strength and weakness" often refers to inherent qualities or characteristics, while "advantages and disadvantages" often relates to specific situations or comparisons. "Strength and weakness" is broader and more personal.