Achilles' heel Meaning in English

expression

US

əˈkɪɫiz/ /ˈhiɫ

uh-KIL-eez HEEL

UK

əˈkɪliːz/ /hˈiːl

uh-KIL-eez HEEL

Definition

An "Achilles' heel" is a particular weakness or vulnerable point in someone or something, even if they are otherwise strong or successful.

Usage & Nuances

Idiom from Greek mythology, usually used in both formal and informal situations. Often follows 'be' or 'is my/his/her/their Achilles' heel.' Describes a single main weakness. Not used for plural or many small weaknesses.

• Spanish: talón de Aquiles
• Portuguese (BR): calcanhar de Aquiles
• Portuguese (PT): calcanhar de Aquiles
• Chinese (Simplified): 致命弱点
• Chinese (Traditional): 致命弱點
• Hindi: कमज़ोरी (कमजोरी) - एकिलिस की कमजोरी
• Arabic: نقطة ضعف
• Bengali: অকিলিসের গোড়ালি - দুর্বলতা (রূপক অর্থে)
• Russian: ахиллесова пята
• Japanese: アキレス腱（けん） - 弱点
• Vietnamese: gót chân Achilles
• Korean: 아킬레스건 - 치명적인 약점
• Turkish: aril topu - zayıf noktası
• Urdu: اکیلس کی ایڑی - سب سے بڑی کمزوری
• Indonesian: tumit Achilles - kelemahan utama

Example Sentences

Math has always been my Achilles' heel in school.

basic

The team's defense is their Achilles' heel.

basic

Chocolate is my Achilles' heel.

basic

No matter how hard he trains, his stamina is his Achilles' heel.

natural

The company is strong, but its outdated software is becoming an Achilles' heel.

natural

Social media can be an Achilles' heel for politicians if not used carefully.

natural