there is a weakness of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there is a weakness of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a lack or deficiency in something, often in a critical or analytical context. Example: "In the current strategy, there is a weakness of communication between departments that needs to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The difference is there is a weakness of trust, a trust that in the past has seen the government through the difficult times.

The Guardian

While we're on the subject of the screen, let's not beat around the bush — if there is a weakness of this device, it's the screen.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

If there is a weakness in Mr Gore's coalition of allies, it is that his famous environmentalism scares firms that finance presidential candidates.

The Economist

If there is a weakness, it's been in his treatment of Henman.

The Guardian - Sport

If there is a weakness, then it is the total strength of the squad".

BBC

He said there was a "weakness" in the proposals in respect of newborn babies who required heart surgery.

BBC

Defensively, though, it looked like there was a weakness in every team, even some of those who progressed far into the tournament.

BBC

"Obviously there's a weakness there and we're on top of it at the moment," added Warner, whose eye-catching 124, together with skipper Michael Clarke's century, helped the Australians rack up 401-7 declared in their second innings.

BBC

Speaking to BBC Radio Wales he said there was a "weakness" in Welsh government around its management of its grant schemes.

BBC

In Dubai and Abu Dhabi there is a perception of American weakness and retreat.

The New York Times

There is no excuse for ill manners and insults, though of course there is an explanation: usually, the impotence and weakness of the insulter and his or her case.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "there is a weakness of", ensure the context clearly specifies what is lacking or deficient. For instance, "There is a weakness of data security in the current system" provides a clear understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "there is a weakness of" without specifying what the weakness pertains to. A sentence like "There is a weakness of something" is incomplete and unclear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is a weakness of" functions as an evaluative expression, pinpointing a deficiency or flaw in a specific area. Based on Ludwig, this phrase correctly identifies shortcomings.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there is a weakness of" is a grammatically correct expression used to identify a specific deficiency or shortcoming. According to Ludwig, this phrase is applicable and valid for use, yet relatively uncommon in comparison to alternatives like "there is a lack of". It appears in various contexts, including news reports and technical evaluations. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly specify what the weakness refers to. While acceptable, writers might consider more common alternatives for broader appeal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there is a deficiency of

Replaces "weakness" with a more formal synonym, "deficiency".

there is a lack of

Uses "lack" to convey a general absence or shortage.

there is a shortage of

Indicates an insufficient amount of something.

there is a paucity of

Employs "paucity" for a more sophisticated expression of scarcity.

there is a dearth of

Uses "dearth" to signify a severe lack or scarcity.

a weakness exists in

Changes the sentence structure while retaining the core meaning of a flaw or failing.

a failing is present in

Uses "failing" instead of "weakness" for a more emphatic tone.

a vulnerability exists within

Implies a susceptibility to harm or attack, often used in security contexts.

an inadequacy is apparent in

Highlights the insufficient or unsuitable nature of something.

an absence is noted in

Focuses on the missing element or quality.

FAQs

What does "there is a weakness of" mean?

The phrase "there is a weakness of" indicates a deficiency or lack in something. It's used to point out a specific area where something is not strong or sufficient.

How can I use "there is a weakness of" in a sentence?

You can use the phrase to identify a specific flaw or deficiency, for example: "There is a weakness of quality control in the manufacturing process".

Which is more common, "there is a weakness of" or "there is a lack of"?

"There is a lack of" is generally more common and widely used than "there is a weakness of". Both phrases convey a sense of deficiency, but the former is more frequently encountered.

What are some alternatives to "there is a weakness of"?

You can use alternatives such as "there is a deficiency of", "there is a shortage of", or "there is a paucity of" depending on the context.