weaker time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "weaker time" is not a standard expression in written English and may not be widely understood.
It could potentially be used in contexts discussing periods of reduced strength or effectiveness, but clarity may be lacking. Example: "During a weaker time in the economy, many businesses struggled to stay afloat."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The Pacific hemisphere (between 90°E and 90°W) is characterized by seemingly standing patches, over periods of about 100 years, of weaker, time variable intensity, with a (quasi period of ~ 80 years.

Earth, Planets and Space

However, with Saturday's 54km individual time trial likely to play a huge part in deciding the podium places, Frenchman Pinot, who is a weaker time trial rider than Valverde, attacked on the ascent of Hautacam and was followed by compatriot Peraud.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

That still sounds pretty impressive, but other indicators suggest weaker times ahead.

The Economist

The secondary bursts (hatched grey zone) presented a weaker time-organized motor pattern and they still occurred during the same period as the main activity on the controlateral side.

Plosone

The holidays are typically a weak time for new plays but a very good one for star vehicles.

The New York Times - Arts

The machinists negotiated with the company when they were at a weak time," he said, and Boeing complied with their wishes.

The New York Times

We have not discussed semi-weak time consistency in the case of random variables, since, in that case, semi-weak time consistency coincides with the weak time consistency.

Probability, Uncertainty and Quantitative Risk

Unfortunately, (relative) body weight has weak time series variation in a short time span.

IZA Journal of Labor Economics

An important feature of the weak time consistency is its invariance with respect to monotone transformations.

Probability, Uncertainty and Quantitative Risk

It has been built to handle possible weak time variations of these angles.

Earth, Planets and Space

In this section, we introduce the concept of semi-weak time consistency for stochastic processes.

Probability, Uncertainty and Quantitative Risk

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "weaker time", ensure the context clearly indicates what is weakening. Be specific about the aspect (e.g., economic strength, physical condition) to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "weaker time" as a vague substitute for more precise descriptions. Instead of saying "it was a weaker time", specify what aspects were weakened (e.g., "it was a time of weaker economic growth").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weaker time" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, describing a period characterized by diminished strength or intensity. As Ludwig AI points out, its usage can be somewhat ambiguous without sufficient context.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "weaker time" is a phrase used to describe a period characterized by reduced strength or intensity. While grammatically correct, its effectiveness relies heavily on the context and the specific quality being diminished. Ludwig AI suggests that it can be ambiguous, so clarity is key. It's mostly seen in Science and News & Media. If greater clarity is needed, consider alternatives like "period of decline" or "time of reduced strength". Overall, while understandable, precise language can enhance the effect of describing a "weaker time".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Time of reduced strength

Directly indicates a decrease in physical or metaphorical power.

Moment of weakness

Highlights a brief instance where strength or resolve is diminished.

Time of vulnerability

Focuses specifically on the aspect of being susceptible to harm or difficulty.

Period of decline

Emphasizes the process of deterioration or weakening over a span of time.

Challenging period

Focuses on the difficulties and demands present during a specific time.

Time of difficulty

Highlights the presence of problems and obstacles during a particular time.

Time of reduced intensity

Emphasizes a decrease in the strength or force exerted during that time.

Time of low ebb

Implies a point of lowest condition or vitality.

Time of waning power

Implies a gradual decline in authority or influence over time.

Lean period

Suggests a time of scarcity or hardship, often in economic contexts.

FAQs

What does "weaker time" mean?

"Weaker time" generally refers to a period or moment characterized by reduced strength, intensity, or effectiveness. Its specific meaning depends heavily on the context in which it's used.

What can I say instead of "weaker time"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "time of vulnerability", "period of decline", or "moment of weakness".

Is "weaker time" grammatically correct?

Yes, "weaker time" is grammatically correct, but its effectiveness depends on clarity and context. Ensure the context makes clear what aspect is weakened.

When is it appropriate to use the term "weaker time"?

It's appropriate to use "weaker time" when describing a period where something specific experiences a decline in strength, intensity, or effectiveness, and this decline is central to the discussion. If you want to enhance the meaning and intention of the sentence consider alternatives like "difficult time" or "challenging period".