Synonyms for

Weaken

Verb / ˈwi:kʌn / Another word for weaken — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to make or become weaker in power, strength, or influence

Synonyms & similar words

countermine break strengthen undermine sabotage counteract stepdown escalate damp soften subvert dampen deescalate soften diminish dampen lessen reduce undermine impair debilitate attenuate sap cripple enfeeble sink weary fatigue tire exhaust devitalize prostrate depress

Synonyms by register

Formal

impair undermine attenuate diminish

Informal

let down take down knock out soften up

Literary

enfeeble sap wane

Antonyms

strengthen fortify reinforce bolster support empower invigorate

Common collocations

  • weaken the resolve
  • weaken the economy
  • weaken the argument
  • weaken the immune system
  • weaken its grip
  • weaken the opposition
  • weaken the structure

Word family

noun weakness
verb weaken
adjective weak
adverb weakly

Usage note

While 'weaken' can be used for physical or abstract concepts, be mindful of its often negative connotation when describing people or their abilities.

Example sentences

  1. The rain will weaken the sandcastle.
  2. I was afraid that the wind would weaken the fence.
  3. If you don't eat, you will weaken your body.
  4. The cold weather can weaken your immune system.
  5. The virus can weaken your strength.

Quotes

  • The ultimate way to strengthen a nation is to weaken its enemy.
  • The biggest challenge in business is not how to grow, but how to weaken your opponent.
  • A soft answer doesn't just turn away wrath, it weakens it.

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