weak link

USAGE SUMMARY

"weak link" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone or something that is either the weakest element in a chain of events or people, or something that is causing something else to fail. For example, "The poor performance of the manager was the weak link in the otherwise successful team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Seems like a weak link".

The New York Times - Tech

Again, the weak link is your banks.

The New York Times

The occasional weak link is Okereke.

Independent

A weak link has been performance.

The New York Times

Another weak link is the suspension tuning.

The New York Times

There cannot be a single weak link".

The Guardian

"Something has to be the weak link".

The New York Times

The weak link is the federal government.

The New York Times

But there was no weak link.

The New York Times - Arts

There wasn't a weak link among them.

The Guardian - Sport

That's the weak link in our game".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "weak link", clearly specify what system or chain the link belongs to, to provide better context for your reader.

Common error

Avoid superficial analysis; ensure you've thoroughly investigated all elements before labeling something the "weak link". A hasty conclusion can lead to misdirected efforts and unresolved issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weak link" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves to identify a specific element, person, or factor within a system or group that is the most vulnerable or likely to fail. Ludwig shows many examples where the phrase is used to pinpoint deficiencies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Academia

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "weak link" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to identify the most vulnerable component within a system or group. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is often employed to highlight areas that require attention or improvement. Predominantly found in News & Media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Alternatives like "vulnerable point" or "Achilles' heel" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context. When using "weak link", ensure you clearly define the system in question to provide clarity and avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vulnerable point

Focuses on the susceptibility to harm or damage.

Achilles' heel

Emphasizes a critical vulnerability that can lead to downfall.

point of failure

Highlights the potential for a system or process to break down.

source of weakness

Identifies the origin of the vulnerability.

biggest liability

Emphasizes the burden or disadvantage caused by the element.

area of deficiency

Pinpoints a specific aspect that is lacking or inadequate.

critical flaw

Highlights a significant defect that can have serious consequences.

problem area

Refers to a part that's causing trouble or difficulties.

soft spot

Indicates an area where one is easily affected or influenced.

deficient component

Stresses the inadequacy of the component.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "weak link" in a sentence?

To effectively use "weak link", clearly identify what is part of the system and how this element jeopardizes the whole, for example: "Poor communication was the "weak link" in the project's failure".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "weak link"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives like "vulnerable point", "Achilles' heel", or "point of failure".

Is it appropriate to use "weak link" in formal writing?

Yes, "weak link" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing systems, processes, or teams. However, consider the specific context and whether a more precise term might be more appropriate.

What does it mean when something is referred to as the "weak link"?

When something is labeled the "weak link", it means it is the part of a system or group that is most likely to fail or cause problems, potentially leading to the downfall or malfunction of the entire entity.