weak

JLPT N2 10 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The adjective (ruò) primarily describes a lack of strength, power, or ability. It is commonly used to describe physical weakness, such as a weak body or poor health, but also extends to abstract uses like weak performance or weak capabilities.

Common Collocations

  • 身体 (shēntǐ ruò): physically weak, often referring to health.
  • 性能 (xìngnéng ruò): weak performance, often used for machines or systems.
  • 表现 (biǎoxiàn ruò): weak performance, used in competitions or evaluations.

Usage Notes

When using to describe people, it often implies vulnerability or fragility, especially in health contexts. In technical or abstract contexts, it indicates insufficient strength or capability. is generally neutral but can carry a slightly negative tone when describing someone's abilities.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse with (ruǎn), which means soft or tender. emphasizes lack of strength or power, while refers to texture or firmness.

Summary

Use to describe weakness in physical, mental, or functional contexts. It is a versatile adjective useful in everyday conversation about health, performance, and capability.

Example Sentences

His body is weak and he often catches colds.

This computer has relatively weak performance and runs large software

He performed weakly in the competition and couldn't win the championship.