Looking for synonyms for achilles heel? We’ve got you covered!
Here’s a list of other ways to say achilles heel.
- Vulnerable spot
- Weak point
- Fatal flaw
- Soft underbelly
- Weak link
- Chink in the armor
- Vulnerability
- Frailty
- Kryptonite
- Weakness
- Shortcoming
- Imperfection
- Foible
- Underbelly
- Achilles’ spot
Want to learn how to say achilles heel professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.
1. Vulnerable Spot
When to use: Appropriate in discussions about a specific area or aspect that is particularly susceptible to problems.
Example: “Our company’s vulnerable spot is its dependency on a single supplier for raw materials.”
2. Weak Point
When to use: Suitable for identifying a specific aspect where a system, plan, or person is less strong or effective.
Example: “The weak point in our security system is the outdated software we are currently using.”
3. Fatal Flaw
When to use: Used when referring to a serious flaw that could lead to downfall or failure.
Example: “The startup’s fatal flaw was its neglect of market research, leading to products that didn’t meet customer needs.”
4. Soft Underbelly
When to use: Ideal for describing a part of an organization or strategy that is particularly exposed or vulnerable.
Example: “The company’s soft underbelly was its lack of digital presence in a rapidly evolving online market.”
5. Weak Link
When to use: Used when referring to the least strong or reliable component in a group or system.
Example: “In our team, the weak link is the outdated communication system that hinders efficient collaboration.”
6. Chink in the Armor
When to use: Suitable for a context where there’s a small but significant vulnerability in an otherwise strong position.
Example: “The chink in the armor of our leading competitor is their poor customer service.”
7. Vulnerability
When to use: A general term for any point of weakness, whether in a system, plan, or organization.
Example: “The company’s main vulnerability is its heavy reliance on seasonal workers.”
8. Frailty
When to use: Often used in a context that involves a fundamental weakness or limitation.
Example: “The frailty of the business model became apparent when new regulations were introduced.”
9. Kryptonite
When to use: Informal, used to describe something that consistently weakens or has a negative impact on someone or something.
Example: “Manual data entry is the kryptonite for our team’s productivity.”
10. Weakness
When to use: A general term for an area lacking strength or proficiency in a professional context.
Example: “The main weakness of the proposal is its lack of a detailed risk mitigation plan.”
11. Shortcoming
When to use: Suitable for describing a deficiency or failing, especially in performance or design.
Example: “The primary shortcoming of the software is its incompatibility with older operating systems.”
12. Imperfection
When to use: Used to describe a minor flaw or defect in something that is largely effective or excellent.
Example: “The only imperfection in the new policy is its lack of clarity regarding remote work guidelines.”
13. Foible
When to use: Often refers to a minor weakness or eccentricity, particularly in a person’s character.
Example: “His greatest foible is his inability to delegate, which often leads to overwork and stress.”
14. Underbelly
When to use: Similar to ‘soft underbelly’, it refers to an area particularly vulnerable to attack or criticism.
Example: “The company’s underbelly is its slow adaptation to environmental sustainability practices.”
15. Achilles’ Spot
When to use: Directly refers to a critical vulnerability, often used in a context where it is well known or obvious.
Example: “The CEO’s Achilles’ spot was her reluctance to embrace technological advancements in the industry.”
