Spanish Conversation · Level 22
90 words
Spanish word
débil
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈdeβil/
Meaning
- adjectiveweak
Example
Hoy me siento débil.
Today I feel weak.
More examples
La señal estaba débil y no pude hacer la llamada.
The signal was weak and I couldn't make the call.
Core concept
A thin twig snapping when pinched.
Common phrases
señal débil
weak signal
argumento débil
weak argument
pulso débil
weak pulse
Similar words
frágil: Structurally delicate and easy to damage, lacking robustness.
endeble: Insufficiently strong to bear weight or pressure, apt to give way.
flojo: Loose or slack in tension or effort, lacking firmness or resolve.
Definition in Spanish
Que tiene poca fuerza o resistencia, ya sea en sentido físico o en sentido figurado.
Word origin
Derives from Latin debilis 'weak', literally 'not able' from de- + habilis 'able', and is related to English debilitate while entering Spanish via the Romance languages.
Usage tips
- Estar débil signals temporary physical weakness while ser débil marks a more permanent trait, and débil also describes lack of force in things such as argumento débil.