weak response

[/wiːk rɪˈspɑːns/]
nounpl: weak responses
resposta fraca
1. An inadequate, ineffective, or insufficiently forceful reply or reaction to something
The government's weak response to the crisis disappointed many citizens.
A resposta fraca do governo à crise decepcionou muitos cidadãos.
2. A reply that lacks conviction, authority, or persuasive power
His weak response to the accusations only made him look more guilty.
Sua resposta fraca às acusações apenas o fez parecer mais culpado.
3. In scientific or technical contexts, a minimal or negligible reaction or result
The drug showed only a weak response in clinical trials.
O medicamento mostrou apenas uma resposta fraca nos testes clínicos.
This phrase is commonly used in both Brazilian and American English contexts, particularly in political discourse, business communication, and academic settings. In Brazil, criticizing a 'resposta fraca' reflects expectations of more decisive government or institutional action. In the US, it's frequently heard in media commentary regarding political responses to crises or public criticism.
NYC Slang
wimpy response / lame response
Synonyms / Sinônimos
inadequate responsepoor responsefeeble responseineffective responsehalf-hearted responselukewarm response
Antonyms / Antônimos
strong responsevigorous responserobust responsedecisive responseforceful response

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
resposta fraca
Standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
resposta fraca / resposta morna
May use 'morna' to emphasize lack of enthusiasm
São Paulo
resposta fraca / resposta insuficiente
More formal business usage often prefers 'insuficiente'
Portugal
resposta fraca / resposta débil
Similar usage to Brazilian Portuguese; 'débil' is also acceptable

Related Words

responseweaknessineffectiveinadequatelack of convictionfeeble

Related Idioms & Phrases

not up to the mark
falling short of expectations
a pale response
half measures
too little, too late
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