C1verb2K

Weaken

UK /["/ˈwiːkən/","/ˈwiːkənz/","/ˈwiːkənd/","/ˈwiːkənɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈwiːkən/","/ˈwiːkənz/","/ˈwiːkənd/","/ˈwiːkənɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make somebody/something less strong or powerful; to become less strong or powerful

In simple words: to make something less strong or less powerful

Examples

  • The constant stress at work began to weaken her resolve.
  • A poor diet can weaken the immune system and make you more susceptible to illness.
  • The scandal served to weaken the politician's support among voters.
  • Repeated exposure to harsh weather conditions can weaken the structure of the building.
  • Over time, competition from new companies may weaken the dominant market leader.

Usage notes

Use 'weaken' in contexts where something's strength is reduced, like a person's health or a structure's stability. Avoid in very technical or scientific discussions where more specific terms are preferred.

Grammar pattern

weaken + object

Memory hint

Think of 'weaken' as 'weak' with a little extra action – like making something weak.

Collocations

  • considerably
  • greatly
  • seriously
  • begin to
  • start to
  • continue to
  • considerably
  • greatly
  • seriously
  • begin to
  • start to
  • continue to

Synonyms

  • diminish
  • lessen
  • reduce
  • attenuate
  • impair

Antonyms

  • strengthen
  • fortify
  • enhance

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'weak' used as an adjective.
  • Used in the wrong tense, like saying 'weakened' when 'weaken' is intended.
  • Forgetting the object; saying 'weaken' without describing what is weakened.