weakly

/'wi:kli/

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Explanation of "Weakly"

Part of Speech: The word "weakly" can function as both an adverb and an adjective.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "weakly" to describe actions that are done without strength or energy.
• Use "weak" as an adjective when describing someone or something that is not strong or powerful.

Advanced Usage:

• You might use "weakly" in more complex sentences to describe emotional states or reactions. For example: "Her weakly expressed concerns about the project were overlooked by the team."
• In literature, "weakly" can describe characters or scenes to convey vulnerability or lack of power.

Word Variants:

• Weak: (adjective) lacking strength.
• Weakness: (noun) the state of being weak; a lack of strength or power.
• Weaken: (verb) to make or become weak.

Different Meanings:

• Weak: can refer to a lack of physical strength, a lack of effectiveness, or a lack of intensity (like weak coffee).
• Weakly: specifically refers to the manner of doing something in a weak way.

Synonyms:

• For weak (adjective): feeble, frail, delicate, powerless.
• For weakly (adverb): feebly, faintly, softly.

Idioms/Phrasal Verbs:

• "Weak at the knees": This idiom means to feel weak or unsteady due to strong emotions, often love or fear.
• "Weak link": Refers to a person or element that is the least strong in a group or system, potentially causing failure.

Summary:

In summary, "weakly" describes a lack of strength or effectiveness, whether it's in a person's physical condition, an argument, or the way something is done.

Academic

Adjective

1. lacking bodily or muscular strength or vitality
   • a feeble old woman
   • her body looked sapless

Adverb

1. in a weak or feeble manner or to a minor degree
   • weakly agreed to a compromise
   • wheezed weakly
   • he was weakly attracted to her

Synonyms

• decrepit
• debile
• feeble
• infirm
• rickety
• sapless
• weak