weak result

USAGE SUMMARY

'weak result' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when talking about a result that is not as strong or satisfactory as expected. For example, "The team was disappointed by the weak result of their match."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

The weak result suggests that exports, one of the few drivers of growth, have started to weaken.

The New York Times

The weak result was the latest sign that exporters across China are struggling to maintain their global competitiveness.

The New York Times

In America, we're watching as our government puts forward new financial regulations, and it looks like we're going to be disappointed by the weak result.

The Guardian - Opinion

More recently (in April 2007), Curse of the Golden Flower began its run with £352,000, viewed at the time as a weak result.

The Guardian - Film

Charles Pick at FinnCap said: The key to this disappointing sales outturn has been a weak result from the group's own stores.

The Guardian - Business

The effect of heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures had completely faded by the March reporting month, meaning a weak result can no longer be overlooked.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

[C12.] Weak Results?

The New York Times

"Weak Serb representation and weak results".

The New York Times

"Weak results mean low morale," he explained, "and low morale means weak results.

The New York Times - Sports

In recent months, several large publishers have reported weak results.

The New York Times

Could foreign make up for the weak results at domestic?

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing research findings, clarify what specific criteria define a "weak result". Quantify the weakness with specific metrics or benchmarks where possible.

Common error

Avoid using "weak result" as a vague assessment. Instead, specify why the result is weak, referencing specific data points or comparisons that demonstrate its inadequacy. Otherwise your assessment is baseless.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weak result" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "weak" is an adjective modifying the noun "result". It indicates a degree of deficiency or lack of strength in the outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "weak result" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an outcome that is less effective or satisfactory than expected. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it finds frequent use across diverse contexts, including news media, scientific research, and formal business communications. While alternatives like "lackluster result" or "disappointing result" offer similar meanings, "weak result" specifically conveys a sense of insufficient strength or impact. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to quantify or further specify why a result is considered weak, thus strengthening the assessment and avoiding vague interpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disappointing result

Changes "weak" to "disappointing", highlighting the unfulfilled expectations.

lackluster result

Replaces "weak" with "lackluster", emphasizing the disappointing nature of the result.

unsatisfactory outcome

Replaces both words to indicate the result did not meet expectations.

subpar result

Replaces "weak" with "subpar", indicating the result was below the expected standard.

poor outcome

Substitutes both words for general synonyms, making the phrase more generic.

limited result

Replaces "weak" with "limited", suggesting restricted effectiveness.

feeble outcome

Replaces result with outcome, suggesting the result was ineffective.

deficient result

Replaces "weak" with "deficient", indicating a lack of something necessary or expected.

deficient outcome

Replaces both words, indicating a failure to satisfy expectations or requirements.

marginal result

Suggests the result barely meets the minimum requirements.

FAQs

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

You can use "weak result" to describe outcomes that are less effective or satisfactory than expected. For example, "The company's sales figures showed a "weak result" this quarter due to increased competition."

What are some alternatives to saying "weak result"?

Alternatives include "lackluster result", "poor outcome", or "disappointing result", depending on the specific context.

Is "weak result" the same as "negative result"?

No, "weak result" implies a result that is not as strong or effective as desired, while "negative result" indicates an outcome that is opposite to what was expected or intended. A "weak result" may still be positive, just not very impactful.

When is it appropriate to use the term "weak result"?

It is appropriate to use "weak result" when you want to convey that an outcome, performance, or finding is below expectations or not as impactful as desired. Be sure to provide context or details to explain why the result is considered "weak".