よわい
When you're just starting out in Japanese, learning basic adjectives is super important. One useful adjective is よわい (yowai). It means 'weak.' You'll often use it to describe physical strength, but it can also refer to things like a weak signal, a weak team, or even a weak argument.
You'll encounter this word a lot in everyday conversations, so it's a good one to get comfortable with early on. Remember, adjectives like よわい are key to building more descriptive sentences. Keep practicing, and you'll master it in no time!
When you're just starting out in Japanese, you'll encounter a lot of adjectives, and よわい (yowai) is a really common one. It means 'weak' and can be used in many situations, just like in English.
For example, you can talk about someone who is physically weak, or a team that isn't very strong. You can also use it to describe something that isn't durable, like a weak chair, or even a weak argument.
As you progress, you'll find that adjectives like よわい are essential for expressing yourself clearly. Pay attention to how it's used in different contexts, and you'll quickly get the hang of it!
When you're describing something as weak in Japanese, you'll often use the adjective よわい (yowai).
This word is pretty versatile. You can use it to talk about physical weakness, like a weak person or a weak voice. It also applies to things like weak tea or a weak signal.
Think of it as the opposite of つよい (tsuyoi), which means strong. So, if you want to say something isn't very robust or powerful, よわい is the word you'll reach for.
When talking about the weakness of people or animals, we usually use よわい (yowai). You might hear it as an adjective describing someone who is not physically strong, or perhaps someone who is easily defeated in a game or sport.
It can also be used for non-physical weakness, like someone having a 'weak' heart, meaning they are easily emotional or prone to certain feelings. Another common use is to describe something that is not strong or durable, like a 'weak' material or a 'weak' signal. So, while it generally means 'weak,' the specific nuance can change depending on what you're talking about.
When discussing weaknesses, Japanese often uses the adjective よわい (yowai). This can refer to physical weakness, like a person who isn't strong, or a weak point in an argument or system.
You might also hear it in contexts like a "weak signal" (電波が弱い - denpa ga yowai) or a "weak team" (弱いチーム - yowai chiimu).
It's a versatile word, and understanding its various applications will help you accurately describe limitations and deficiencies in many situations.
When we say something or someone is よわい (yowai), it means they lack strength, power, or resilience. This adjective can be applied to a variety of situations. For instance, a person who is physically frail or easily gets sick can be described as よわい.
It can also refer to something that is not strong in its construction or ability, like a よわい signal for your phone, or a team that is performing poorly. Even in a metaphorical sense, if someone has a weak point or a character flaw, you might hear it described as よわい.
§ What does よわい (yowai) mean?
The Japanese adjective よわい (yowai) directly translates to "weak." It's a common and versatile word you'll hear in many situations. Just like in English, "weak" can refer to physical strength, emotional state, or even the quality of something.
Let's break down the common uses. You'll often hear よわい when talking about physical strength, like someone who isn't very strong or an athlete who's not performing well. It also applies to things that are not sturdy or easily broken. Think about a weak chair, or a weak signal.
Beyond the physical, よわい can describe emotional or mental weakness. If someone is easily upset or lacks resolve, they might be described as よわい. It can also refer to a lack of ability or skill in a particular area. For instance, if you're not good at math, you could say your math is よわい.
§ When do people use よわい (yowai)?
You'll find よわい used in a variety of everyday conversations. Here are some common scenarios:
- Describing people: When someone lacks physical strength, stamina, or is prone to illness.
- Describing objects: When something is fragile, not sturdy, or easily damaged.
- Describing abilities/skills: When someone is not proficient in a particular subject or activity.
- Describing conditions: Such as a weak signal, a weak economy, or a weak argument.
- Describing emotions: When someone is easily disheartened or sensitive.
Let's look at some examples to help you grasp these nuances.
- DEFINITION
- Referring to a person's physical weakness.
彼は体が弱いです。
He is physically weak.
- DEFINITION
- Referring to the fragility of an object.
この椅子は少し弱いです。
This chair is a little weak (not sturdy).
- DEFINITION
- Referring to a skill or subject one is not good at.
彼女は数学が弱いです。
She is weak at math.
- DEFINITION
- Referring to a signal being weak.
電波が弱いです。
The signal is weak.
Understanding these different applications is key to using よわい correctly and naturally. Don't be afraid to experiment with it in your own sentences.
§ “よわい” in Daily Life: Work, School, News
You've learned that “よわい” (yowai) means “weak.” Now, let's see where you'll actually encounter this word in common Japanese conversations and media. It's used in many contexts, not just for physical strength. Understanding these uses will help you sound more natural.
- Definition Review
- Weak; lacking strength, power, or resilience.
§ At Work: Describing Performance or Systems
In a professional setting, “よわい” can be used to talk about weaknesses in a plan, a system, or even a person's skill set, but be careful with the last one to avoid being rude.
今のシステムはセキュリティが弱い。
- Translation hint
- The current system's security is weak.
あの企画は根拠が弱い。
- Translation hint
- That plan's basis is weak (i.e., not well-supported).
§ At School: Grades, Sports, or Physical Condition
In a school environment, “よわい” comes up often. Students might talk about subjects they're not good at, their physical condition, or even a sports team's performance.
彼は数学が弱い。
- Translation hint
- He is weak at math (i.e., bad at math).
体が弱いから、すぐ病気になる。
- Translation hint
- Because my body is weak, I get sick easily.
§ In the News: Economic Trends or Natural Disasters
News reports frequently use “よわい” to describe a wide range of situations, from economic performance to the intensity of natural phenomena.
- Economy: You might hear about a “弱い円” (yowai en - weak yen) or a “弱い景気” (yowai keiki - weak economy/business conditions).
- Weather: A typhoon or earthquake might be described as “弱い” to indicate it's not very strong.
- Teams/Competition: Sports news often uses it to describe a team that isn't performing well.
円が弱いと輸入品が高くなる。
- Translation hint
- When the yen is weak, imported goods become expensive.
今日の地震は揺れが弱いでした。
- Translation hint
- Today's earthquake had a weak tremor.
As you can see, “よわい” is a versatile word. Pay attention to the context, and you'll quickly get the hang of its various meanings. Keep practicing, and your Japanese won't be “よわい” for long!
§ Understanding the Nuances of よわい (Yowai)
When you're learning Japanese, words like よわい (yowai) might seem straightforward at first. You learn it means 'weak', and that's a good start! But just like in English, 'weak' can be used in many situations, and sometimes, directly translating it doesn't quite fit. Let's look at some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
§ Mistake 1: Using よわい for things that are easily broken or fragile
In English, you might say a vase is 'weak' if it's easily broken. In Japanese, while よわい can sometimes imply fragility, it's not the most natural or common word for describing something that breaks easily. Instead, you'll often hear other words.
- DEFINITION
- Instead of よわい for physical fragility, consider:
- もろい (moroi): Fragile, brittle. This is a very common word for objects that break easily.
- こわれやすい (kowareyasui): Easily broken. This is a more direct and descriptive way to say something breaks with little effort.
このガラスはもろいです。
This glass is fragile/brittle.
そのおもちゃはこわれやすいから気をつけて。
That toy is easily broken, so be careful.
§ Mistake 2: Using よわい to describe weak coffee or tea
If you want to say your coffee or tea isn't strong enough, you might be tempted to say よわい. However, for beverages, Japanese speakers use a different word.
- DEFINITION
- For weak-tasting beverages, use:
- うすい (usui): Thin, light (in color or concentration), weak (flavor). This is the correct word to describe diluted or weak-tasting drinks.
このコーヒーはちょっとうすいですね。
This coffee is a bit weak (in flavor).
§ Mistake 3: Overusing よわい for all kinds of 'weakness' in people
While よわい can describe physical weakness in a person (e.g., after an illness), it's important to differentiate it from other types of 'weakness' we describe in English.
- DEFINITION
- Consider alternatives for specific types of human weakness:
- 体が弱い (karada ga yowai): Physically weak (e.g., gets sick easily). This is a very common way to say someone has a weak constitution.
- 気の弱い (ki no yowai): Fainthearted, timid, weak-willed. This describes emotional or mental weakness, a lack of courage or resolve.
- 苦手 (nigate): Not good at, weak at (a skill or subject). If someone is 'weak' at math, you'd use 苦手.
彼は体が弱いので、すぐ風邪をひきます。
He is physically weak, so he catches colds easily.
彼女は気の弱い人です。
She is a fainthearted/timid person.
私は数学が苦手です。
I am weak at/not good at math.
§ Summary of よわい Usage
So, when is よわい the perfect word? It's great for:
- Describing a person's physical weakness (e.g., after an illness, not naturally strong).
- Referring to a 'weak' opponent in a game or competition.
- Describing a weak light or sound (dim, faint).
- A weak argument or reason.
彼は病気で弱っている。
He is weakened by illness.
相手チームは弱いです。
The opposing team is weak.
By being aware of these common pitfalls and learning the more precise Japanese words, you'll sound much more natural and accurate in your conversations. Keep practicing!
कठिनाई स्तर
short hiragana word
short hiragana word
common sound
clear pronunciation
आगे क्या सीखें
आगे सीखें
उन्नत
ज़रूरी व्याकरण
い-adjectives like よわい can directly modify a noun. For example, よわいひと (yowai hito) means 'a weak person.'
かれは よわい ひと です。(Kare wa yowai hito desu.) - He is a weak person.
To make an い-adjective negative, replace the final い with くない. So, よわい (weak) becomes よわくない (not weak).
あのこは よわくない です。(Ano ko wa yowakunai desu.) - That child is not weak.
To form the past tense of an い-adjective, replace the final い with かった. よわい (weak) becomes よわかった (was weak).
きのうは よわかった です。(Kinou wa yowakatta desu.) - Yesterday, I was weak (e.g., felt weak).
To form the past negative tense of an い-adjective, replace the final い with くなかった. よわい (weak) becomes よわくなかった (was not weak).
かれは ぜんぜん よわくなかった。(Kare wa zenzen yowakunakatta.) - He wasn't weak at all.
You can use an い-adjective with から (kara) to express a reason. For example, よわいから (yowai kara) means 'because it's weak.'
からだが よわいから、うんどうが できません。(Karada ga yowai kara, undou ga dekimasen.) - Because my body is weak, I can't exercise.
स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण
体がよわいので、風邪をひきやすいです。
My body is weak, so I easily catch colds.
この椅子はよわいから、座らないでください。
This chair is weak, so please don't sit on it.
彼女は心がよわいので、すぐに泣いてしまいます。
She is weak-hearted, so she cries easily.
このロープはよわいから、重いものは吊るさないで。
This rope is weak, so don't hang heavy things with it.
彼は経済的によわい立場にあります。
He is in a weak economic position.
この会社の経営はよわいと言われている。
It is said that this company's management is weak.
よわい雨が降っています。
A light (weak) rain is falling.
彼の意見は論理的によわい。
His opinion is logically weak.
体がよわいので、冬はいつも風邪をひきます。
I have a weak constitution, so I always catch a cold in winter.
Describes a physical weakness.
彼は精神的によわいから、すぐに落ち込んでしまう。
He's mentally weak, so he gets depressed easily.
Refers to mental or emotional weakness.
この椅子は足がよわいので、座るとがたつく。
This chair's legs are weak, so it wobbles when you sit on it.
Describes a structural weakness.
彼の議論は根拠がよわい。
His argument has weak foundations.
Used to describe a weak argument or reason.
この薬は効果がよわいから、もっと強い薬が必要だ。
This medicine has a weak effect, so I need stronger medicine.
Indicates a weak effect or potency.
彼女はアルコールによわいので、すぐに顔が赤くなる。
She's weak to alcohol, so her face quickly turns red.
Describes low tolerance, specifically to alcohol.
彼は決断力がよわいから、なかなか物事を決められない。
He has weak decision-making skills, so he can't make decisions easily.
Refers to a lack of decisiveness.
この国の経済はまだよわい。
This country's economy is still weak.
Used to describe a weak economy.
अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है
While similar, '脆い' emphasizes fragility or brittleness, something that breaks easily. '弱い' is a broader term for general weakness.
Refers to being poor, meager, or flimsy, often implying a lack of resources or robustness. '弱い' is a more general descriptor of weakness.
Specifically means powerless or lacking physical strength. While related to '弱い', '非力' is more focused on an inability to exert force.
व्याकरण पैटर्न
आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले
Many English speakers confuse '弱い' with terms describing physical weakness or lack of skill, but it has broader applications in Japanese, including emotional weakness, low quality, or even a weak argument.
'弱い' covers various types of weakness: physical, emotional, qualitative, or logical. It's not just about strength or skill.
彼は体が弱い。(Kare wa karada ga yowai.) - He has a weak constitution. (Hint: Focus on 'body' and 'weak'.)
Often confused with 'thin' in a general sense, but '細い' specifically refers to a narrow or slender physical dimension, not necessarily weakness.
'細い' describes something as physically narrow or thin (e.g., a thread, a line), while '弱い' describes a state of weakness or fragility.
細い糸。(Hosoi ito.) - Thin thread. (Hint: 'thread' is 'ito'.)
Learners might use '弱い' when they mean 'few' or 'a small amount', thinking of 'weak in number'.
'少ない' refers to quantity (few, small amount), whereas '弱い' refers to a lack of strength, intensity, or quality.
人が少ない。(Hito ga sukunai.) - There are few people. (Hint: 'people' is 'hito'.)
Can be confused with 'weak at something' or 'poor quality', which might seem similar to '弱い'.
'下手' specifically means unskilled or poor at doing something. '弱い' refers to a general state of weakness, not necessarily skill level.
歌が下手だ。(Uta ga heta da.) - I'm bad at singing. (Hint: 'singing' is 'uta'.)
Describes faintness or paleness, which can be perceived as a 'weak' color or light.
'淡い' specifically refers to lightness or faintness in color, taste, or light. '弱い' is a broader term for weakness in general.
淡い色。(Awai iro.) - Pale color. (Hint: 'color' is 'iro'.)
वाक्य संरचनाएँ
AはBが弱いです (A wa B ga yowai desu)
彼女は体が弱いです。(Kanojo wa karada ga yowai desu.) - She is physically weak.
AはBに弱いです (A wa B ni yowai desu)
彼は寒さに弱いです。(Kare wa samusa ni yowai desu.) - He is sensitive to cold.
Aが弱いです (A ga yowai desu)
この椅子は足が弱いです。(Kono isu wa ashi ga yowai desu.) - This chair's legs are weak.
AはBが弱い (A wa B ga yowai)
彼はアルコールに弱い。(Kare wa arukooru ni yowai.) - He's a light drinker (weak against alcohol).
弱いN (yowai N)
弱い風が吹いています。(Yowai kaze ga fuite imasu.) - A weak wind is blowing.
Aは弱い (A wa yowai)
このチームは弱い。(Kono chiimu wa yowai.) - This team is weak.
〜が弱いです (ga yowai desu)
彼の声が弱いです。(Kare no koe ga yowai desu.) - His voice is faint (weak).
〜に弱いです (ni yowai desu)
私は甘いものに弱いです。(Watashi wa amaimono ni yowai desu.) - I have a weakness for sweets.
शब्द परिवार
संज्ञा
क्रिया
सुझाव
Basic Meaning of Yowai
よわい (yowai) directly translates to weak. You can use it to describe physical weakness, like being not strong, or even someone who is fragile.
Physical Weakness Example
子どもはまだよわいです。(Kodomo wa mada yowai desu.) means 'The child is still weak.' This refers to a lack of physical strength.
Emotional Weakness Example
彼は心がよわい。(Kare wa kokoro ga yowai.) means 'He has a weak heart/spirit.' This implies emotional vulnerability or being easily affected.
Fragile Objects
このいすはよわい。(Kono isu wa yowai.) means 'This chair is weak.' Here, it suggests the chair is not sturdy or is easily broken.
Contrast with Tsuyoi
The opposite of よわい (yowai) is つよい (tsuyoi), which means strong. Learning antonyms together can help you remember both words better.
Using with Nouns
When connecting よわい to a noun, you often use の (no) for possession or association. For example, よわいひと (yowai hito) means 'a weak person'.
Common Phrases with Yowai
A common phrase is よわいところ (yowai tokoro), meaning 'weak point' or 'vulnerability'. Everyone has a weak point!
Practice Sentences
Try making a few simple sentences using よわい. For example, 'I am weak' (私はよわいです。Watashi wa yowai desu.) or 'This coffee is weak' (このコーヒーはよわい。Kono kōhī wa yowai.).
Formal vs. Informal
よわい is a pretty standard adjective. You'll hear it in both formal and informal settings. The politeness comes from the sentence ending, like です (desu) for formal statements.
खुद को परखो 132 सवाल
このコーヒーは少し＿＿＿です。
The context implies the coffee is not strong, so 'weak' (よわい) is the correct choice.
私はまだ日本語が＿＿＿です。
If someone is not good at Japanese yet, they are 'weak' (よわい) in it. While へた (bad at) can also fit, よわい emphasizes a lack of strength or skill in this context.
彼の意見は少し＿＿＿です。
When an opinion is not strong or convincing, it can be described as 'weak' (よわい).
この橋はとても＿＿＿ので、渡らないでください。
If a bridge is dangerous to cross, it's likely 'weak' (よわい).
私は朝に＿＿＿ので、コーヒーを飲みます。
If you need coffee in the morning, it's often because you feel 'weak' (よわい) or not fully energized.
このチームは＿＿＿ので、勝つのは難しいでしょう。
If a team is unlikely to win, it's probably because they are 'weak' (よわい).
Choose the correct meaning for 「よわい」:
「よわい」 (yowai) means weak.
Which sentence uses 「よわい」 correctly?
「よわい」 describes someone or something as weak.
What is the opposite of 「よわい」?
「つよい」 (tsuyoi) is the opposite of 「よわい」 (yowai).
「よわい」 means strong.
No, 「よわい」 (yowai) means weak.
This sentence means 'My legs are weak.': 私の足はよわいです。(Watashi no ashi wa yowai desu.)
Yes, 「私の足はよわいです」 means 'My legs are weak.'
「よわい」 is an i-adjective.
Yes, 「よわい」 (yowai) ends in 'i', making it an i-adjective.
He is weak.
That chair is weak.
Is this string weak?
Read this aloud:
あのテーブルはよわい。
Focus: よわい
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
わたしはよわいです。
Focus: わたしはよわいです
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
かぜはよわい。
Focus: かぜはよわい
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence describing something weak using よわい (yowai).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
このコーヒーはよわいですね。 (This coffee is weak.)
Translate the following sentence into Japanese: "My cat is weak because it is old."
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私の猫は年をとっているので、よわいです。
Complete the sentence with an appropriate adjective: 私はまだ日本語が___です。 (I am still ___ at Japanese.)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私はまだ日本語がよわいです。
What does B mean by 「少しよわいね」?
Read this passage:
A: このスープは味がうすいね。 B: うん、少しよわいね。
What does B mean by 「少しよわいね」?
よわい (yowai) means weak, and in this context, it refers to the flavor of the soup being weak or bland.
よわい (yowai) means weak, and in this context, it refers to the flavor of the soup being weak or bland.
What kind of person is described in the passage?
Read this passage:
あの人は体がよわいです。すぐに疲れてしまいます。
What kind of person is described in the passage?
体がよわい (karada ga yowai) means 'physically weak'. The second sentence confirms they get tired easily.
体がよわい (karada ga yowai) means 'physically weak'. The second sentence confirms they get tired easily.
What is the problem with the desk?
Read this passage:
この机はよわいです。たくさんの本を置かないでください。
What is the problem with the desk?
よわい (yowai) means weak. The second sentence asks not to put many books, implying the desk cannot support them.
よわい (yowai) means weak. The second sentence asks not to put many books, implying the desk cannot support them.
このコーヒーは少し＿＿＿ですね。
The context implies the coffee is not strong enough, so 'weak' (よわい) is the most suitable adjective.
病気なので、体が少し＿＿＿。
Being sick often makes one feel physically weak, so 'weak' (よわい) fits the sentence.
彼はまだ子どもなので、＿＿＿です。
Children are generally seen as physically or mentally 'weak' compared to adults, making よわい appropriate.
この橋は古くて＿＿＿から、渡らないでください。
An old bridge is likely to be 'weak' and unsafe, so よわい is the correct choice.
私は数学が少し＿＿＿です。
To say one is not good at a subject, 'weak' (よわい) is a common and appropriate expression in Japanese.
このチームは去年より＿＿＿になった。
If the team's performance has declined, they would be considered 'weaker' (よわい) than last year.
Choose the correct kanji for よわい:
弱い (yowai) means weak. 強 (tsuyoi) means strong, 好 (suki) means like, and 高 (takai) means tall/expensive.
Which sentence correctly uses 'yowai'?
「彼は体が弱いです。(Kare wa karada ga yowai desu.)」 means 'He is physically weak.' The other options don't make sense in Japanese.
What is the opposite of 弱い?
強い (tsuyoi) means strong, which is the opposite of weak. 速い (hayai) means fast, 遅い (osoi) means slow, and 寒い (samui) means cold.
「今日の天気は弱いです。(Kyou no tenki wa yowai desu.)」 is a natural way to say 'Today's weather is weak.'
You wouldn't use 弱い to describe weather. You might say '天気が悪いです (tenki ga warui desu - The weather is bad)' or '風が強いです (kaze ga tsuyoi desu - The wind is strong)'.
You can use 弱い to describe someone who is not good at something, like 'I am weak at math.'
Yes, it's common to say 「私は数学が弱いです。(Watashi wa suugaku ga yowai desu.)」 to mean 'I am weak at math' or 'I'm not good at math.'
「このコーヒーは弱いです。(Kono kohī wa yowai desu.)」 can mean 'This coffee is weak (in flavor).'
Yes, 弱い can be used to describe drinks that are not strong in flavor, like weak coffee or tea.
Write a sentence describing someone who is not physically strong.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼は体がよわいです。 (He is physically weak.)
Write a short sentence about a team that is not performing well.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
そのチームは今シーズン、よわいです。 (That team is weak this season.)
Imagine you are talking about a faint light. Write a sentence using 'よわい'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
この電気の光はよわいです。 (The light from this lamp is weak.)
What does person A think about the computer?
Read this passage:
A: このパソコンはちょっと古くて、動きがよわいですね。 B: そうですね。新しいのを買ったほうがいいかもしれません。 What does person A think about the computer?
What does person A think about the computer?
Person A says the computer's movement (動き) is 'よわい', which means weak or slow in this context.
Person A says the computer's movement (動き) is 'よわい', which means weak or slow in this context.
What is the speaker weak at?
Read this passage:
今日のテストはとても難しかった。私は日本語の文法がよわいので、いい点が取れませんでした。 What is the speaker weak at?
What is the speaker weak at?
The speaker mentions that their Japanese grammar (日本語の文法) is 'よわい', meaning weak.
The speaker mentions that their Japanese grammar (日本語の文法) is 'よわい', meaning weak.
What kind of wind is blowing?
Read this passage:
冬の朝は寒くて、よわい風が吹いています。私は暖かいコーヒーを飲みたいです。 What kind of wind is blowing?
What kind of wind is blowing?
'よわい風' (yowai kaze) refers to a weak or gentle wind.
'よわい風' (yowai kaze) refers to a weak or gentle wind.
This sentence means 'His Japanese is still a little weak.' It combines the subject 'he,' the adverb 'still,' the topic 'Japanese,' the adverb 'a little,' and the adjective 'weak.'
This sentence means 'This table is a little weak and cannot hold heavy things.' It describes the table's condition and its inability to support heavy objects.
This sentence means 'I'm a little weak if I don't drink coffee in the morning.' It expresses a personal habit and its effect.
彼女は病気なので、体がとても___。
Context indicates she is sick, so her body is weak. '強い' means strong, '長い' means long, '短い' means short.
この橋は古いので、構造が少し___。
An old bridge would likely have a weak structure. '新しい' means new, '重い' means heavy, '速い' means fast.
彼はスポーツが得意ではないので、体力は___。
Someone not good at sports likely has weak physical strength. '強い' means strong, '低い' means low, '高い' means high.
この薬は効果が___ので、あまり効かないかもしれません。
If a medicine's effect is weak, it might not work well. '強い' means strong, '速い' means fast, '遅い' means slow.
風邪をひいているから、声が少し___。
When you have a cold, your voice might be weak or faint. '大きい' means loud, '小さい' means small, '高い' means high-pitched.
彼は精神的に___から、少しの失敗でも落ち込んでしまう。
Someone who gets depressed easily from small failures is mentally weak. '強い' means strong, '脆い' means fragile, '固い' means hard.
Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: 彼はいつも体が___から、よく風邪をひきます。
The sentence means 'He often catches a cold because his body is always ___.' 'よわい (yowai)' meaning 'weak' is the most fitting choice for someone who often gets sick.
Which sentence uses 'よわい' correctly?
'よわい' can be used to describe a weakness in a subject or skill. While the other options could be grammatically correct in specific contexts, '彼女は数学がよわいです。' (She is weak in math.) is the most direct and common usage here.
Select the antonym for 'よわい' (weak).
'つよい (tsuyoi)' means 'strong', which is the direct opposite of 'よわい (yowai)' meaning 'weak'.
You can use 'よわい' to describe someone who is physically frail.
'よわい' is commonly used to describe physical weakness or frailty, for example, '体がよわい' (karada ga yowai - weak body).
The phrase '気持ちがよわい' (kimochi ga yowai) means 'having a strong will'.
'気持ちがよわい' (kimochi ga yowai) means 'faint-hearted' or 'having a weak will', not a strong one.
If a team is 'よわい', it means they are likely to win many games.
If a team is 'よわい' (weak), it means they are not strong and are therefore unlikely to win many games.
The speaker is talking about being susceptible to colds.
The speaker is describing a team's current state and effort.
The speaker is mentioning criticism about someone's opinion.
Read this aloud:
この計画は少しよわいと思います。
Focus: よわい (yowai)
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Read this aloud:
私は朝に少しよわいです。
Focus: よわいです (yowai desu)
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
その理由はよわいと感じます。
Focus: よわいと (yowai to)
तुमने कहा:
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Imagine you're describing someone who is not physically strong. Write a sentence in Japanese using 'よわい' to describe their physical weakness. (Hint: 'からだ' means body)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼は体が弱いです。
You are discussing the weak points or disadvantages of a plan or idea. Write a sentence in Japanese expressing that a certain plan has a weak point using 'よわい'. (Hint: '計画' means plan, '点' means point)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
その計画には弱い点があります。
You are talking about someone who is not good at a particular subject or skill. Write a sentence in Japanese using 'よわい' to describe their weakness in a subject. (Hint: '数学' means mathematics)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼女は数学に弱いです。
田中さんがよく風邪をひく理由は何ですか？
Read this passage:
A: 田中さんはどうしていつも風邪をひいているんですか？ B: 彼は体が弱いから、すぐに風邪をひいてしまいます。
田中さんがよく風邪をひく理由は何ですか？
Bさんが「彼は体が弱いから、すぐに風邪をひいてしまいます」と言っているので、体が弱いことが理由です。
Bさんが「彼は体が弱いから、すぐに風邪をひいてしまいます」と言っているので、体が弱いことが理由です。
この会社の問題は何ですか？
Read this passage:
この会社は新しい市場で競争に弱い。そのため、売り上げが伸び悩んでいる。対策を考える必要がある。
この会社の問題は何ですか？
文章に「この会社は新しい市場で競争に弱い」とあります。
文章に「この会社は新しい市場で競争に弱い」とあります。
彼の日本語について正しいものはどれですか？
Read this passage:
彼は日本語の発音が弱いですが、語彙はとても豊富です。毎日練習しているので、きっとうまくなります。
彼の日本語について正しいものはどれですか？
文章に「彼は日本語の発音が弱いですが、語彙はとても豊富です」とあります。
文章に「彼は日本語の発音が弱いですが、語彙はとても豊富です」とあります。
This sentence means 'His Japanese is still a little weak.' The typical Japanese sentence structure is Subject-Object-Verb, and adjectives like 弱い come before the noun they modify, or at the end of the sentence to describe the subject.
This means 'This coffee tastes a bit weak.' The phrase '味が弱い' (aji ga yowai) is commonly used to describe a weak taste.
This sentence translates to 'Because he is physically weak, he often catches colds.' '体が弱い' (karada ga yowai) means 'physically weak'.
このコーヒーは少し味が___ですね。
文脈から「このコーヒーは味が薄い」が適切です。「薄い」は「弱々しい」や「希薄な」という意味でも使われます。
病気の後で、彼はまだ体が___と感じている。
「病気の後で体が弱い」は、体力や抵抗力が低下している状態を表します。
この薬は効果が___ので、あまり効かないかもしれません。
「薬の効果が弱い」は、薬の効き目が不十分であることを示します。
彼女は精神的に___部分があるが、とても優しい人だ。
「精神的に弱い」は、感情的にもろい、または困難に直面したときに動揺しやすい状態を表します。
チームの中で、彼は守備が少し___と言われている。
「守備が弱い」は、スポーツなどで防御能力が低いことを示します。
この光は目が___人には少し明るすぎるかもしれません。
「目が弱い」は、光に敏感であったり、視力が良くない状態を指すことがあります。
この橋は古くて___。
文脈から、橋が古いので「弱い」が適切です。
病気で体が___。
病気なので体が「弱い」が適切です。
彼は精神的に___から、少しの失敗でも落ち込んでしまう。
少しの失敗で落ち込むことから、精神的に「弱い」が適切です。
このチームは新メンバーが加わったので、以前よりも弱くなった。
新メンバーが加わった場合、通常はチームが強くなる可能性が高いです。
光が弱い部屋では、読書が難しい。
光が弱いと、文字が見えにくいため読書は困難になります。
彼の意見は根拠が弱いので、誰も賛成しなかった。
根拠が弱い意見は、支持されにくいものです。
Imagine you're describing someone who is physically weak but mentally strong. Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) in Japanese about this person, using 'よわい' at least once. Include how their mental strength compensates for their physical weakness.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼は体がよわいですが、精神的にはとても強い人です。どんな困難にも屈せず、いつも前向きに努力します。彼の精神的な強さが、肉体的な弱さを補っています。
Write a short email (3-4 sentences) to a friend explaining why you feel 'よわい' (weak) about a particular subject or skill. For example, maybe you're weak at math or public speaking. Suggest a plan to improve.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
件名：最近の悩み こんにちは！実は最近、英語のスピーキングがよわいと感じています。なかなか自信を持って話せなくて。だから、毎日オンライン英会話を練習しようと思っています。一緒に頑張ろうね！
Describe a situation where a 'よわい' (weak) argument or point of view was presented, and how it was countered or what the consequences were. Write 3-4 sentences in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
会議で彼の提案はデータに基づかないよわいものでした。そのため、他のメンバーから多くの反論が出ました。結局、その提案は採用されず、より説得力のある別の案が選ばれました。
この文章から、Aさんが体調の弱さを克服するために何をしていると読み取れますか？
Read this passage:
Aさんはいつも体調がよわく、すぐに風邪をひいてしまいます。しかし、彼はその弱さを克服するために、毎日欠かさず運動し、栄養バランスの取れた食事を心がけています。その結果、少しずつ体力がつき、以前よりも活動的になりました。彼の努力は周りの人々に良い影響を与えています。
この文章から、Aさんが体調の弱さを克服するために何をしていると読み取れますか？
文章中に「毎日欠かさず運動し、栄養バランスの取れた食事を心がけています」と明記されています。
文章中に「毎日欠かさず運動し、栄養バランスの取れた食事を心がけています」と明記されています。
この会社の製品について、ユーザーからの主な不満は何ですか？
Read this passage:
この会社の製品はデザインがとても優れていますが、耐久性がよわいという評価が多いです。特にスマートフォンのバッテリーはすぐに劣化し、頻繁に交換が必要になるとユーザーからの苦情が寄せられています。デザイン性を追求するあまり、機能性や品質が犠牲になっているのかもしれません。
この会社の製品について、ユーザーからの主な不満は何ですか？
文章中に「耐久性がよわいという評価が多いです。特にスマートフォンのバッテリーはすぐに劣化し、頻繁に交換が必要になる」と書かれています。
文章中に「耐久性がよわいという評価が多いです。特にスマートフォンのバッテリーはすぐに劣化し、頻繁に交換が必要になる」と書かれています。
経済的によわい国が外交交渉で不利な立場になる主な理由は何ですか？
Read this passage:
国際関係において、経済的によわい国は外交交渉で不利な立場に置かれることが多いです。豊かな国々からの援助に頼らざるを得ないため、自国の利益を主張しにくい状況が生まれます。このような状況を改善するには、自国の経済力を強化し、他国に依存しない自立した経済基盤を築くことが重要です。
経済的によわい国が外交交渉で不利な立場になる主な理由は何ですか？
文章中に「豊かな国々からの援助に頼らざるを得ないため、自国の利益を主張しにくい状況が生まれます」と記載されています。
文章中に「豊かな国々からの援助に頼らざるを得ないため、自国の利益を主張しにくい状況が生まれます」と記載されています。
彼の弁護士は彼の事件が証拠に乏しいと警告したが、彼は自分の無実を主張し続けた。しかし、裁判は彼にとって___立場となった。
文脈から、裁判が彼にとって不利な状況になったことを表す「弱い立場」が適切です。
長年の無理がたたり、彼の体はすっかり___なってしまった。
長年の無理が原因で、体が「弱く」なったことを意味します。
この橋は建設から100年が経過し、構造的に___と診断されたため、全面的な補強工事が必要だ。
構造が古くなり、耐久性が「弱い」と診断されたことを表します。
彼女の政治的基盤は支持者の高齢化と若年層の関心喪失により、ますます___なっている。
支持基盤が不安定になり、「弱く」なっている状況を指します。
経済状況の悪化により、中小企業の多くは経営基盤が___状態で、存続が危ぶまれている。
経営基盤が不安定で、「弱い」状態にあることを示します。
彼の交渉術はいつも相手の___点を見抜き、そこを突くことで優位に立つ。
相手の「弱点」を見抜くという文脈で使われます。
Choose the most appropriate synonym for 「よわい」 in the context of a person's physical strength.
「虚弱な」 directly translates to 'frail' or 'weakly' and is commonly used to describe a person with little physical strength. 「柔らかな」 means 'soft', 「希薄な」 means 'thin' or 'diluted', and 「不明瞭な」 means 'unclear'.
Which of the following sentences correctly uses 「よわい」 to describe a 'weak' argument or point?
In this context, 「よわい」 refers to the lack of strength or conviction in an argument, meaning it's not persuasive. The other options use 「よわい」 in different senses: coffee strength, voice volume, and protecting 'weak' (vulnerable) citizens, which is a different nuance.
Select the sentence where 「よわい」 is used metaphorically to describe a nation's position or influence.
Here, 「よわい」 metaphorically describes a nation's lack of economic strength or influence in the international community. The other options refer to literal weakness in a company's foundation, a bridge's structure, or a person's emotional state.
It is grammatically correct and natural to say 「この機械はよわいので、すぐに壊れてしまう」 to mean 'This machine is weak, so it breaks easily.'
「よわい」 can describe the fragility or lack of durability of objects, making this sentence perfectly natural and correct.
When describing someone's 'weakness' in a specific skill or subject, using 「よわい」 (e.g., 「彼は数学によわい」) is an appropriate and common expression.
The phrase 「〜によわい」 is a standard way to express being 'weak at' or 'poor at' a particular subject or skill in Japanese.
The phrase 「気がよわい」 (ki ga yowai) strictly means that someone is physically weak and easily tired.
「気がよわい」 means 'faint-hearted' or 'timid', describing someone's personality or emotional disposition, not their physical strength.
This sentence means 'He is quite weak physically.' The word order in Japanese often places the topic first, followed by adverbs and then the adjective.
This translates to 'His arguments are weak when participating in discussions.' In Japanese, the modifying clause often comes before the noun it modifies, and the verb or adjective comes at the end.
This means 'It is pointed out that this company's foundation is weak.' The particle と often follows direct speech or what is being pointed out.
彼の意見はあまりにも説得力がなく、議論の基盤としては極めて____。
議論の基盤が説得力に欠ける場合、「脆弱」（ぜいじゃく）が最も適切です。「弱い」はA1レベルですが、ここではC2レベルのより適切な語彙を選びます。
長年の不況により、その国の経済は著しく____状態にある。
経済が長年の不況でダメージを受けている状況を表すには、「疲弊」（ひへい）が適切です。これは「弱い」という状態をより具体的に、C2レベルの語彙で表現しています。
彼女の証言は決定的な証拠に欠け、信憑性が____と言わざるを得ない。
証言の信憑性が欠けている状態を表すには、「希薄」（きはく）が適切です。これは「弱い」というニュアンスをC2レベルの語彙で伝えます。
その企業のセキュリティシステムは、度重なるサイバー攻撃によって____が露呈した。
サイバー攻撃によってシステムの「弱い」部分が明らかになった、という状況をC2レベルで表現するには「脆弱性」（ぜいじゃくせい）が適切です。
彼の病気は進行が早く、体力が日に日に____いくばかりだった。
病気によって体力が「弱く」なっていく状況をC2レベルで表すには、「衰退して」（すいたいして）が適切です。
その政府の政策は国民の支持を____おり、政権基盤が揺らいでいる。
国民の支持が「弱い」ために政権基盤が揺らいでいる状況をC2レベルで表現するには、「ほとんど得られず」が適切です。
Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: 彼はいつも体が___から、よく風邪をひきます。
The sentence indicates that 'he always catches a cold because his body is weak'. 'よわい' (yowai) means weak, which fits the context.
Which sentence uses 'よわい' correctly to describe a weak argument?
In Japanese, 'よわい意見' (yowai iken) can mean a weak argument or opinion. The other options use 'よわい' in a more literal sense or for other contexts.
Select the antonym for 'よわい' in the context of physical strength:
'つよい' (tsuyoi) means strong, which is the direct opposite of 'よわい' (weak) when referring to physical strength.
「あの会社の経営はよわい」 means that the company's management is not good.
When referring to a company's management, '経営がよわい' (keiei ga yowai) implies that the management is weak, ineffective, or not stable.
You can use 'よわい' to describe a person who is not good at sports.
Yes, '運動がよわい' (undou ga yowai) is a common expression meaning someone is not good at sports or is physically weak in a sporting context.
「味がよわい」 means the flavor is too strong.
「味がよわい」 (aji ga yowai) means the flavor is weak or mild, not strong. If the flavor were too strong, you would use a different adjective.
The speaker is evaluating someone's opinion.
The sentence discusses the nature of a country's economy.
Someone's argument is being critically assessed.
Read this aloud:
最近の株価の動向を見ると、市場全体の先行きはまだ弱いと言えるでしょう。
Focus: 弱い (yowai)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
いくら優れたシステムを導入しても、それを運用する人間側のスキルが弱ければ意味がありません。
Focus: 弱ければ (yowakereba)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
このプロジェクトの計画は、いくつかの仮定が非常に弱く、再検討が必要です。
Focus: 弱い (yowai)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
/ 132 correct
Perfect score!
Basic Meaning of Yowai
よわい (yowai) directly translates to weak. You can use it to describe physical weakness, like being not strong, or even someone who is fragile.
Physical Weakness Example
子どもはまだよわいです。(Kodomo wa mada yowai desu.) means 'The child is still weak.' This refers to a lack of physical strength.
Emotional Weakness Example
彼は心がよわい。(Kare wa kokoro ga yowai.) means 'He has a weak heart/spirit.' This implies emotional vulnerability or being easily affected.
Fragile Objects
このいすはよわい。(Kono isu wa yowai.) means 'This chair is weak.' Here, it suggests the chair is not sturdy or is easily broken.
उदाहरण
彼女は体がよわいです。
संबंधित सामग्री
यह शब्द अन्य भाषाओं में
general के और शब्द
いくつか
B1An unspecified small number of things; some, a few.
ちょっと
A2A little; a moment; a bit. Small amount or short time.
すこし
A2A little; a few.
さっき
A2A little while ago; a short time past.
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
