weak face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "weak face" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who appears vulnerable, timid, or lacking in confidence, often in a figurative sense. Example: "In the debate, he had a weak face that made it hard for the audience to take him seriously."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The weak face humiliation, from teammate and foe alike, if they have not been weeded out.

The New York Times - Sports

When compared to performance-based measures (e.g., walk time), ADLs and IADLs generally display weak face validity, reproducibility, and sensitivity to change [ 9].

BMC Geriatrics

Overall, however, despite its weak face validity in IPF, the symptoms domain performs reasonably well in this population, and its potential to detract from the performance of the SGRQ total score is tempered because it contributes least to the SGRQ total score.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

In both settings the health systems are weak, facing severe human resources for health shortages and, infrastructure and drug supply problems.

BMC Health Services Research

There's nothing to ruin a photo as much as a sweaty face and weak expression.

WikiHow

Her friend, in a moment of weakness, thought her "a foolish ageing woman with a weak, offended face.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

A year ago, Sterling Hitchcock was at spring training in Peoria, Ariz., still too weak to face major league hitters.

The New York Times - Sports

Both Italy's prime minister, Silvio Berlusconi, and France's president, Nicolas Sarkozy, are weak and face a loud anti-immigrant far right.

The Economist

When the Indian market opened up, he recalls, Indian companies thought they would all have to merge with each other, because years of protection had made them too weak to face the new foreign competition.

The Economist

Perhaps this is because we are using slightly different pathways to do so, or perhaps, with training, we can make better use of our relatively weak fusiform face areas.

The New Yorker

He wants you to do good for others especially those who are weak and face the same problem as you did.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "weak face", consider the specific characteristic you want to convey: vulnerability, illness, or lack of confidence. Choose the wording that best reflects the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "weak face" literally to describe physical strength. The phrase is most effective when used figuratively to describe someone's expression or overall demeanor. Consider if a more direct description of the person's actual facial features may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weak face" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It combines an adjective ("weak") with a noun ("face") to modify or characterize the appearance of someone. Ludwig AI shows that this expression is used to convey vulnerability, illness, or a lack of confidence.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "weak face" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a countenance lacking strength, health, or confidence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides examples across various contexts. While not overly common, the phrase is versatile enough for use in news, scientific writing, and general discourse. It's important to consider the specific nuance you wish to convey—vulnerability, illness, or lack of confidence—when using the term, and to choose synonyms like "vulnerable expression" or "timid expression" if a more specific meaning is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vulnerable expression

Focuses on the display of vulnerability rather than inherent weakness.

timid expression

Highlights a lack of confidence or assertiveness in the facial expression.

frail countenance

Emphasizes the delicate and fragile nature of the face.

listless look

Suggests a lack of energy or enthusiasm in the facial expression.

sickly appearance

Conveys an impression of ill health reflected in the face.

feeble features

Refers to facial features that appear weak or lacking in vitality.

pale visage

Emphasizes the paleness and lack of color in the face.

delicate features

Suggests a refined but potentially fragile or vulnerable appearance.

wan complexion

Focuses on the unhealthy or pale color of the skin on the face.

enfeebled features

Highlights the weakening or deterioration of facial features.

FAQs

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

You can use "weak face" to describe someone who appears vulnerable, ill, or lacking confidence. For example, "He presented a "weak face" during the negotiation, making him seem easily manipulated."

What are some synonyms for "weak face"?

Alternatives to "weak face" include "vulnerable expression", "timid expression", or "frail countenance". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "weak face" a literal or figurative expression?

"Weak face" is typically used figuratively to describe someone's emotional state or health, rather than their physical strength. For example, a "sickly appearance" might be described as a "weak face".

Which is more appropriate, "weak face" or "weak facial expression"?

Both "weak face" and "weak facial expression" are acceptable, but "weak face" is more concise. "Weak facial expression" may be clearer in some contexts, but it can also sound redundant. Consider the context and desired level of formality when choosing between the two.