weak figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "weak figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person or character that lacks strength, confidence, or presence, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "In the debate, he presented a weak figure, struggling to defend his position against the more assertive opponent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

But he is a relatively weak figure.

The Economist

Donald Rumsfeld, the defence secertary, was also seen as a weak figure at the time.

The Guardian

So it is ironic that it should now offer up such a weak figure.

The Economist

A weak figure could damage confidence causing a stock market rout, but it could also mean more QE, which would boost stock markets.

The Guardian - Business

The weak figure is a signal that Japan's gross domestic product could grow at a lower rate in the July to September period than in the second quarter.

The New York Times

"Renzi and Berlusconi's ideal candidate would be a weak figure, politically dependent on their alignment," said Wolfango Piccoli, managing director at Teneo Intelligence.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

But already weak figures in Greece are getting worse, and Spanish manufacturers see some deterioration.

The New York Times

The weak figures seem to point to a renewed funk for the world economy.

The Economist

The weak figures from Comet came as video games specialist Game also revealed a sharp dip in sales.

The Guardian - Business

Instead, the weak figures gave investors another excuse to collect their winnings and hold off on any new buys.

The New York Times

The data was far from reassuring, but investors saw it as a reprieve from several months of startlingly weak figures.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character or person as a "weak figure", provide specific examples of their actions or inactions that demonstrate this weakness. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the degree of weakness or vulnerability. Using hyperbolic language can undermine your credibility and make the character seem less believable. Instead of saying someone is "completely helpless", consider stating they "struggle to assert themselves" or "often defer to others".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weak figure" functions primarily as a descriptive term, often acting as a subject complement or an appositive. It serves to characterize an individual or entity as lacking strength, influence, or authority, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment of its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "weak figure" is a commonly used descriptor, typically indicating a lack of strength, influence, or authority. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and applicable in diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. While its connotation is often negative, implying criticism or concern, it can also convey empathy. When using "weak figure", it's important to provide specific examples to support your assessment and avoid exaggeration. Alternatives like "ineffectual person" or "powerless individual" can offer more nuanced meanings, depending on the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

powerless individual

Emphasizes a lack of authority or control.

ineffectual person

Focuses on the lack of positive impact or results.

inept leader

Specifically addresses a lack of skill or competence in a leadership role.

easily manipulated individual

Highlights the susceptibility to being controlled by others.

vulnerable character

Highlights susceptibility to harm or influence.

feeble presence

Focuses on the lack of a strong or noticeable impact.

helpless person

Stresses an inability to assist oneself or others.

submissive person

Emphasizes a tendency to yield to the authority or will of others.

unimpressive personality

Draws attention to a lack of charisma or impact.

pushover

Informal term for someone easily persuaded or taken advantage of.

FAQs

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

You can use "weak figure" to describe someone who lacks power, influence, or strength. For example: "The new prime minister is seen as a relatively "weak figure" within the party."

What are some alternatives to "weak figure"?

Alternatives include "ineffectual person", "powerless individual", or "vulnerable character" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe someone as a "weak figure"?

While often negative, describing someone as a "weak figure" can sometimes be neutral or even empathetic, depending on the context. It might highlight a character's vulnerability or lack of experience, prompting sympathy rather than condemnation.

What's the difference between "weak figure" and "inexperienced leader"?

"Weak figure" implies a general lack of strength or influence, while "inexperienced leader" specifically refers to a lack of experience in a leadership role. A leader can be inexperienced without being inherently weak.