"of a weak" vs "of the weak"

Question

"of a weak" vs "of the weak"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Of a weak' is used when referring to a specific weak individual or group, while 'of the weak' is used when talking about weak people in general.

Last Updated: March 30, 2024

This phrase is used when talking about a particular weak person or group in a specific context.

Examples:

The teacher took advantage of a weak student's lack of confidence.
The company targeted the product at a weak segment of the market.
She was the protector of a weak and vulnerable child.
He was accused of preying on a weak and defenseless old man.
The politician exploited the situation of a weak community for personal gain.

Alternatives:

of a vulnerable
of a feeble
of a frail
of a delicate
of a powerless

This phrase is used when talking about weak individuals or groups in a general sense.

Examples:

The charity organization helps the needs of the weak in society.
It is important to stand up for the rights of the weak and marginalized.
The strong should protect the interests of the weak.
The policy aims to support the welfare of the weak and disadvantaged.
She dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of the weak.

Alternatives:

of the vulnerable
of the feeble
of the frail
of the delicate
of the powerless

Answer 1

of a weak

This phrase is correct when referring to a specific weak individual or group.

Answer 2

of the weak

This phrase is correct when referring to weak people in general.

"of a weak" vs "of the weak"

of a weak

of the weak

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