“weak”

Lacking physical or mental strength to a noticeable, almost pitiable degree.

“His feeble protest barely carried across the empty courtroom.”

Best for: Works well in narrative prose when emphasizing helplessness or inadequacy.

Delicately weak in constitution or structure, easily broken or damaged.

“She looked frail against the backdrop of the enormous stone archway.”

Best for: Best for describing physical vulnerability, especially in people or fragile systems.

Drained of vitality, force, or strength, leaving one listless and ineffectual.

“The relentless heat left the soldiers enervated and barely able to march.”

Best for: Ideal for formal writing or when describing a gradual, draining loss of energy.

Utterly lacking in power or potency; wholly without force or effect.

“The impuissant king signed every decree his advisors placed before him.”

Best for: Formal, archaic-leaning; suits historical fiction or pointed political commentary.

Abnormally pale, thin, and weak due to being deprived of nourishment or vigor.

“The etiolated figure barely cast a shadow in the cold afternoon light.”

Best for: Originally botanical; powerful in literary prose for describing wasted or pallid weakness.

Devoid of vitality or energy, like a plant stripped of its life-giving sap.

“The sapless bureaucracy produced nothing but delay and disappointment.”

Best for: Punchy and visual; works brilliantly for institutions, arguments, or lifeless prose.