underlying weaknesses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "underlying weaknesses" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to fundamental or hidden flaws or vulnerabilities in a system, argument, or individual. Example: "The report highlighted several underlying weaknesses in the company's financial strategy that need to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Political stability and the end of the civil war have improved aid flows and economic activity has increased, but underlying weaknesses - a high poverty rate, poor education rates, a weak legal system, a poor transportation network, overburdened utilities, and low administrative capacity - risk undermining planned economic reforms.

Forbes

"But given the underlying weaknesses that are evident into today's data, if the economy remains weak then the toll on the public sector finances could end up being truly horrible".

The Guardian - Business

Yet despite today's strength their economy has many underlying weaknesses.

The Economist

But closer examination betrays serious underlying weaknesses to which they do not have answers.

The Guardian

"When everybody is doing better," he said, "it is difficult to see the underlying weaknesses".

The New York Times

Germany may look like the strong man of Europe but its underlying weaknesses are obvious.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

The crisis squeezed investment, amplifying underlying weakness.

The Economist

But Statistics Canada cautioned that the underlying weakness in the economy persisted in October.

The New York Times

Investors took fright, feeling that the ploy betrayed underlying weakness in the company, and the share price plunged.

The Guardian - Opinion

But skills and careers organisations warned that the rise was a symptom of underlying weakness in the employment market.

Independent

Will Russia's leaders respond to this by raising the stakes, in the hope of showing their opponents' underlying weakness?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing a situation, look beyond the surface and identify the "underlying weaknesses" to address the core issues effectively.

Common error

Avoid only focusing on immediate symptoms; delve deeper to understand the "underlying weaknesses" that contribute to the problem for a comprehensive solution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underlying weaknesses" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb or the subject complement, identifying fundamental flaws or vulnerabilities within a system, situation, or entity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is perfectly usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "underlying weaknesses" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe fundamental flaws or vulnerabilities that are not immediately apparent. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in news, business, and scientific writing. Recognizing these hidden issues is crucial for effective problem-solving and strategic planning. While alternatives like "fundamental flaws" or "core vulnerabilities" can be used, understanding the nuances of "underlying weaknesses" allows for more precise and impactful communication. Therefore, avoid surface-level analysis and focus on uncovering and resolving these root issues to achieve lasting improvements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental flaws

Emphasizes the basic or essential nature of the flaws.

core vulnerabilities

Highlights the susceptibility to harm or attack.

basic deficiencies

Focuses on the lack of essential qualities or elements.

inherent limitations

Stresses restrictions that are naturally part of something.

root causes of failure

Identifies the fundamental reasons for a lack of success.

hidden vulnerabilities

Emphasizes the concealed nature of the weaknesses.

systemic faults

Indicates that the weaknesses are embedded within a larger system.

structural problems

Points to flaws in the design or organization of something.

latent defects

Suggests that the weaknesses are present but not yet visible.

underlying frailties

Highlights the delicate or vulnerable nature of the weaknesses.

FAQs

How can I use "underlying weaknesses" in a sentence?

You can use "underlying weaknesses" to describe fundamental flaws or vulnerabilities. For example: "The report revealed several "underlying weaknesses" in the company's management structure."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "underlying weaknesses"?

Alternatives include "fundamental flaws", "core vulnerabilities", or "basic deficiencies". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "underlying weaknesses" or "underlining weaknesses"?

"Underlying weaknesses" is the correct phrase. "Underlining weaknesses" suggests highlighting or emphasizing weaknesses, which has a different meaning.

What's the difference between "underlying weaknesses" and "obvious weaknesses"?

"Underlying weaknesses" refers to flaws that are not immediately apparent, while "obvious weaknesses" are easily noticeable. Identifying "underlying weaknesses" requires deeper analysis.