weak reply

[/wiːk rɪˈplaɪ/]
nounpl: weak replies
resposta fraca
1. an inadequate, unconvincing, or insufficient response to a question, argument, or criticism
His weak reply to the accusations failed to convince anyone in the room.
Sua resposta fraca às acusações não convenceu ninguém na sala.
2. a response that lacks strength, conviction, or logical support
The company's weak reply to customer complaints only made matters worse.
A resposta fraca da empresa às reclamações dos clientes apenas piorou as coisas.
In both Brazilian and American English contexts, a 'weak reply' is often viewed critically in professional, academic, and social settings. In Brazil, there's cultural emphasis on persuasive communication, so weak replies may be particularly judged in business contexts. In NYC and American culture, failing to give a strong response can undermine credibility and confidence in debates or professional discussions.
NYC Slang
weak sauce / that ain't it
Synonyms / Sinônimos
lame responsefeeble answerunconvincing replyinadequate responsepoor answer
Antonyms / Antônimos
strong replycompelling answerconvincing responseforceful rebuttal

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
resposta fraca
most common usage in Brazilian Portuguese
Rio de Janeiro
resposta fraca / resposta meia-boca
informal usage with 'meia-boca' meaning mediocre
São Paulo
resposta fraca / resposta fraca demais
emphasizing insufficiency
Portugal
resposta fraca / resposta débil
'débil' is more commonly used in European Portuguese

Related Words

weak argumentfeeble excuseunconvincing explanationcounterargument

Related Idioms & Phrases

a far cry from a good answer
falling short of expectations
not up to the mark
a poor showing
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