weak links

Meanings

1. 1nounplural

   The parts of a group, system, or chain that are most likely to fail or cause problems.

   Grammar: Plural of 'weak link'. Use it with a plural verb: 'The weak links are obvious.'

   Patterns

   • the weak links in something
   • identify the weak links
   • expose the weak links

   The report identified several weak links in the security system.

   In any team, the weak links show up under pressure.

   We need to strengthen the weak links before the launch.

2. 2nounpluralinformal

   People in a group who are less able or less reliable than the others.

   Grammar: Used mainly in informal or business contexts; can sound critical.

   Patterns

   • the weak links in a team
   • carry the weak links

   The manager thought some employees were weak links and offered training.

   Every chain has its weak links, and we must support them.

Word forms

Common combinations

the weak link in the chain

The old bridge is the weak link in the chain of roads.

a weak link in the system

A single weak link in the system can cause a major failure.

identify weak links

The audit helped us identify weak links in our process.

strengthen the weak links

Training can strengthen the weak links in a team.

Synonyms and how they differ

vulnerability

More formal and abstract; it refers to the quality of being easy to attack, not the specific part.

flaw

A fault or imperfection in something; 'weak link' focuses on a part of a connected group.

Opposites

Word family

weak link noun

The singular form, used for one weak part or person.

weakness noun

A lack of strength or a fault in someone or something.

Commonly confused: weak links or week links?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “weak links”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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