weakness crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your definitive source for solving tricky crossword clues. Here you'll find all possible answers for the clue "weakness", categorized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the solution and improve your puzzle-solving skills.
Solutions for "weakness crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FLAW: A defect or imperfection in something or someone.
5 Letters
CHINK: Often used in the idiom "chink in one's armor," meaning a small but significant vulnerability.
6 Letters
FOIBLE: A minor weakness or eccentricity in someone's character.
7 Letters
FRAILTY: The condition of being weak or delicate, often referring to human weaknesses or moral failings.
10 Letters
DEFICIENCY: A lack or shortage, or a failing or shortcoming in a quality, amount, or performance.
12 Letters
ACHILLESHEEL: A metaphor for a crucial weakness or vulnerability despite overall strength, derived from Greek mythology.
13 Letters
VULNERABILITY: The state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally.
More About "weakness crossword clue"
"Weakness" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, leading to a wide range of potential answers. Depending on the context and the number of letters, it can refer to physical feebleness, a character flaw, an Achilles' heel, or even a structural defect. Crossword setters love to play with these nuances, often hinting at the specific type of weakness required through other words in the clue.
Understanding the different facets of 'weakness' is key to solving these clues. For instance, if the clue suggests a minor personal fault, 'FOIBLE' might be appropriate. If it implies a critical failing despite overall strength, 'ACHILLESHEEL' is a strong contender. Always consider if the clue is looking for a noun describing a state, a characteristic, or a specific point of failure.
Our comprehensive list above provides the most common and accurate solutions, helping you to quickly identify the correct word. Remember to check the letter count and any intersecting letters you might already have in your puzzle grid to narrow down the options.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is often the most critical piece of information. Eliminate answers that don't fit the length immediately.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword setters frequently use synonyms for the clue or antonyms of the answer. Think broadly about words related to 'weakness' and its opposite, 'strength'.
- Consider Figurative Meanings: Clues like 'weakness' can often have figurative answers (e.g., 'CHINK' in armor). Always be prepared for metaphorical interpretations.
- Check Intersecting Letters: If you have letters from crossing words, use them to confirm or rule out potential answers. This is especially helpful when multiple answers for 'weakness' have similar lengths.
- Think about the Puzzle Theme: Sometimes, an entire puzzle or a section of it might have a theme (e.g., body parts, literature). This can subtly influence the meaning of clues like 'weakness'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'weakness' typically imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'weakness' often points to concepts like flaws, defects, vulnerabilities, or personal shortcomings (e.g., foibles, frailties). The specific answer depends on the letter count and surrounding clues, as it can refer to a physical, emotional, or structural imperfection.
Are there common synonyms for 'weakness' used in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms include FLAW, FOIBLE, ACHILLESHEEL, CHINK, FRAILTY, DEFECT, DEBILITATION, and VULNERABILITY. Puzzles often use these words interchangeably for 'weakness' based on the required letter length and context.
How can I distinguish between different 'weakness' answers if I have some letters?
If you have some letters, try filling them into potential answers based on their length. For instance, if you have '_L_W', FLAW is a strong candidate. Context from other solved clues in the puzzle is also crucial. Consider if the 'weakness' is physical, character-based, or strategic.