weakness

A fault or lack of ability that makes someone or something less effective.

• Spelling is my main weakness.
• The report revealed weaknesses in the system.
• Every team has strengths and weaknesses.

How to use it: weakness in something (There is a serious weakness in the plan.)

Similar words: fault, shortcoming, flaw

Opposites: strength

Common phrases: major weakness, weakness in something, personal weakness

The condition of having little physical strength, power, or ability to resist something.

• The illness caused muscle weakness.
• He could not stand because of his weakness.
• The currency's weakness made imports more expensive.

How to use it: weakness in something (She noticed weakness in her left arm.)

Similar words: frailty, feebleness

Opposites: strength

Common phrases: muscle weakness, physical weakness, weakness in something

A strong liking for something that is hard to resist.

• She has a weakness for chocolate.
• Expensive shoes are his weakness.
• My weakness for cakes makes dieting difficult.

How to use it: have a weakness for something (I have a weakness for fresh bread.)

Similar words: soft spot, fondness

Common phrases: weakness for something, have a weakness