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.
That explanation is feeble.
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.
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.
Stop that feeble attitude.