weak

The word “weak” means lacking physical strength or power. In plain terms, lacking strength, force, or effectiveness — whether that's a muscle, an argument, a drink, or someone's resolve.

“Weak” is pronounced week (/wi(ː)k/ in IPA).

Here is “weak” used in a sentence: “His legs were still weak after the long illness.”

Words with a similar meaning to “weak” include anemic, breakable, broken-down, debilitated, damaged and decrepit.

The opposite of “weak” — its antonyms — are healthy, powerful, robust, strong and invincible.

“Weak” is an adjective.

The word “weak” comes from Old English. From Old Norse veikr ("weak, pliant"), related to Old English wāc — the same root that gives us "week" and "wick.".

“Weak” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

They sound alike but are unrelated. 'Weak' is an adjective meaning lacking strength or power, as in a weak grip or a weak signal. 'Week' is a noun meaning a period of seven days. A simple check: if you mean a length of time, you always want 'week'.

The direct opposite is 'strong'. Depending on context, 'powerful', 'sturdy', 'robust', or 'forceful' also work — a strong grip, a powerful engine, a robust economy. When 'weak' describes something faint, like a signal or a flavour, its opposite leans toward 'strong' or 'intense'.

Yes. Although it literally means lacking physical strength, 'weak' stretches widely: a weak argument lacks logic, a weak signal is faint, weak coffee is dilute, a weak economy is struggling, and a weak character lacks resolve. The core idea of insufficient strength or force carries across them all.

Usually, yes. Describing a person, plan, or performance as weak suggests a shortcoming and tends to sound critical. It isn't always harsh, though — a weak puzzle solution or weak tea are neutral, factual descriptions rather than insults. Tone depends heavily on the context in which it is used.