薄弱

• Pinyin: bó ruò
• Hanzi breakdown: 薄 = 艹 (grass) + 溥 (thin, spread); 弱 = two 弓 (bow, suggesting bent/weak)

Meaning

Weak; frail; flimsy. Lacking strength, foundation, or substance.

Often used for abstract things like foundations, defenses, or capabilities rather than physical weakness. Common collocations: 基础薄弱 (weak foundation), 力量薄弱 (weak force), 意志薄弱 (weak-willed), 薄弱环节 (weak link).

Examples

1. 他数学基础薄弱，需要多花时间补习。 His math foundation is weak; he needs to spend more time catching up.
2. 这个计划的薄弱环节在于资金不足。 The weak link in this plan is insufficient funding.
3. 我们必须加强薄弱地区的医疗资源配置。 We must strengthen the allocation of medical resources in underdeveloped areas.

Usage Guide

Context: analysis, criticism, assessment

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 我的英语口语比较薄弱。(My spoken English is relatively weak.)
• 这是我们的薄弱环节。(This is our weak point.)

Don't Say

• 用'薄弱'形容身体虚弱——身体虚弱一般用'虚弱'或'体弱' (Don't use 薄弱 for physical frailty — use 虚弱 or 体弱 for bodily weakness)

Origin & History

Compound of 薄 (thin, weak) + 弱 (weak, feeble), emphasizing lack of strength or substance.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal