French translation of weaken is 
affaiblir

Meaning of "weaken" in English

The term "weaken" refers to the process of reducing strength, intensity, or power. It can apply to physical substances, emotional states, or arguments. In physical contexts, it might mean making something less robust or durable, like a weakened structure. Emotionally, it could mean a reduction in resolve or determination, such as when facing adversity. In debates or discussions, a weakened argument is one that becomes less persuasive or convincing due to lack of support or evidence. The word can also apply to status or influence, indicating a decline in authority or effectiveness.

Meaning of "affaiblir" in French

The French verb "affaiblir" means to diminish or reduce strength, power, or intensity. It is used in a variety of contexts similar to its English counterpart. Physically, it can describe the weakening of materials or structures. Emotionally or psychologically, it can refer to a decrease in morale or confidence. In terms of influence or control, "affaiblir" suggests a decline in authority or effectiveness. The verb conveys the idea of making something or someone less effective or powerful, often used in both literal and figurative scenarios.

Pronunciation of "weaken" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈwiː.kən/

Pronunciation Variations: In British English, "weaken" might be pronounced with a more clipped ending, whereas in American English, the vowel sound might be slightly more extended. However, there are no significant regional variations to note, making it relatively uniform across English-speaking regions.

Pronunciation of "affaiblir" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /a.fɛ.bliʁ/

Pronunciation Variations: French pronunciation is generally consistent across different regions, though there may be slight variations in accent between northern and southern France. In some regional accents, the 'r' might be more guttural, but the overall pronunciation remains quite standard.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. The illness began to weaken him. (La maladie commença à l'affaiblir.)
2. The rain will weaken the soil's structure. (La pluie va affaiblir la structure du sol.)
3. His argument started to weaken under scrutiny. (Son argument commença à s'affaiblir sous l'examen attentif.)
4. Lack of sleep can weaken your immune system. (Le manque de sommeil peut affaiblir votre système immunitaire.)
5. They aimed to weaken the opposition. (Ils visaient à affaiblir l'opposition.)
6. The bonds between the two countries were starting to weaken. (Les liens entre les deux pays commençaient à s'affaiblir.)
7. She felt her resolve weaken over time. (Elle sentait sa détermination s'affaiblir au fil du temps.)
8. The economy has started to weaken this year. (L'économie a commencé à s'affaiblir cette année.)
9. After many years of use, the rope began to weaken. (Après de nombreuses années d'utilisation, la corde commença à s'affaiblir.)
10. The medication can weaken your bones. (Le médicament peut affaiblir vos os.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "weaken" in English

Synonyms: enfeeble, debilitate, diminish, sap, cripple, attenuate, reduce, undermine, impair, lessen.

Antonyms: strengthen, fortify, bolster, enhance, invigorate, reinforce, solidify, energize, boost, empower.

Similar Words: dilute, soften, decrease, deteriorate, lessen, slacken, decline, subdue, diminish, reduce.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "affaiblir" in French

Synonyms: diminuer, affaiblir, réduire, amollir, diminuer, abaisser, amoindrir, ébranler, miner, amenuiser.

Antonyms: renforcer, fortifier, consolider, redresser, stimuler, vivifier, solidifier, stabiliser, énergiser, soutenir.

Similar Words: amoindrir, diminuer, affadir, dégénérer, baisser, atténuer, fléchir, défaire, diminuer, relâcher.

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