Translation guide
Describes physical weakness, lack of strength, or ineffectiveness. Japanese expressions vary based on whether referring to bodily frailty, weak arguments, faint light/sound, or feeble-mindedness.
Describing a person's body as weak, frail, or lacking strength, often due to age or illness.
Adjective meaning 'weak-looking', 'feeble', 'frail'. Often used for a person's appearance or actions.
He asked for help in a feeble voice.
She became feeble due to illness.
Emphasizes delicate, fragile weakness, often with a nuance of pity or protectiveness.
A feeble old person had collapsed on the road.
Noun or na-adjective meaning physically weak, puny, or delicate. Often used for children or those lacking stamina.
I want to strengthen my feeble body.
Formal or medical term for constitutional weakness or frailty.
He has a feeble constitution.
Describing something like an argument, excuse, or attempt as unconvincing, half-hearted, or lacking force.
Basic adjective for 'weak'. Can describe feeble arguments, weak points, etc.
His excuse is feeble.
I could only make a feeble counterargument.
Literally 'lacks persuasiveness'. Natural way to say an argument is feeble or unconvincing.
Adjective meaning 'powerless', 'feeble'. Often used for a weak smile or attempt.
Describing light, sound, or a physical sensation as very weak, barely perceptible.
Describing a person as lacking mental strength, easily swayed, or foolish.
Can mean weak-willed or susceptible to temptation.
He is feeble against temptation.
Noun or na-adjective meaning 'weak-willed', 'feeble-minded'. More formal.
Noun meaning 'coward', 'weakling', 'feeble-minded person'. Derogatory.
Direct translations like '弱い人' can sound odd or insulting without context. Use specific terms like '弱々しい' for appearance or '虚弱' for medical frailty.
That explanation is feeble.
彼は力ない笑みを浮かべた。
He gave a feeble smile.
Also used for faint, weak light or sound, emphasizing its lack of strength.
A feeble light was flickering.
Feeble-minded people don't succeed.
そんな腑抜けた態度はやめろ。
Stop that feeble attitude.