Inklingo

How to Say "weakness" in Spanish

English → Spanish

debilidad

deh-bee-lee-DAHD/deβiliˈðað/

nounB1general
Use 'debilidad' when referring to a lack of physical or mental strength, often due to illness, fatigue, or a temporary condition.
A small, exhausted child character struggling intensely to hold up a single, colorful feather, illustrating physical weakness.

Examples

Después de la operación, sentía una gran debilidad en todo el cuerpo.

After the operation, he felt great weakness throughout his whole body.

La debilidad de su plan era que no tenían suficiente dinero.

The weakness (or flaw) of their plan was that they didn't have enough money.

Ella reconoció la debilidad de su carácter: era demasiado orgullosa.

She recognized the weakness of her character: she was too proud.

Gender Rule

Most Spanish words ending in -dad, like 'debilidad', are feminine. Always use 'la' or 'una' with them.

Confusing with Adjective

Mistake: “Usar 'débilidad' (with accent).”

Correction: The noun form 'debilidad' does not carry an accent mark, although the related adjective 'débil' (weak) does.

limitación

nounB2general
Use 'limitación' to describe a personal failing, a flaw, or a specific constraint that restricts one's abilities or potential.

Examples

Él conoce muy bien sus propias limitaciones.

He knows his own limitations very well.

Debilidad vs. Limitación

Learners often confuse 'debilidad' and 'limitación' by using 'debilidad' for personal flaws. Remember, 'debilidad' is about a lack of strength (physical or mental), while 'limitación' refers to a personal shortcoming or boundary.

Related Translations

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