薄弱 bóruò weak
weak; frail
How to remember 薄弱: 薄 thin + 弱 weak = weak.
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How it is used
- Weak in the sense of a weak link / thin foundation - 基础薄弱 (jīchǔ bóruò) a shaky foundation.
- Applies to abstract structural weakness: 意志薄弱 (yìzhì bóruò) weak-willed, 力量薄弱 weak forces.
- Contrast 脆弱 (cuìruò), emotional fragility; 薄弱 is about being insufficient/underbuilt. Here 薄 is read bó (not báo).