Noun
/əˈkɪliz ˈtɛndən/
The Achilles' tendon is a fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus). It is the strongest and thickest tendon in the human body, crucial for walking, running, and jumping. The term is commonly used in medical, sports, and anatomical contexts.
The term is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in discussions about sports injuries, anatomy, and physical therapy. References to the Achilles' tendon often appear in medical literature, sports commentary, and among fitness enthusiasts.
The athlete strained his Achilles' tendon during the competition.
L'athlète a écarté son tendon d'Achille pendant la compétition.
Surgery on the Achilles' tendon can be quite complex.
La chirurgie du tendon d'Achille peut être assez complexe.
Rehabilitation after an Achilles' tendon injury requires a careful plan.
La réhabilitation après une blessure au tendon d'Achille nécessite un plan soigneux.
The term "Achilles' tendon" is not commonly featured in idiomatic expressions, but there are idioms related to the concept of vulnerability, referencing the Achilles heel. Here are a few examples:
His tendency to procrastinate is his Achilles' heel in the workplace.
Sa tendance à procrastiner est son talon d'Achille au travail.
The company's lack of online presence is an Achilles' heel in the competitive market.
Le manque de présence en ligne de l'entreprise est un talon d'Achille sur le marché concurrentiel.
Despite her intelligence, her lack of patience is her Achilles' heel in studying.
Malgré son intelligence, son manque de patience est son talon d'Achille dans les études.
Ignoring customer feedback is the Achilles' heel of many businesses.
Ignorer les retours des clients est le talon d'Achille de nombreuses entreprises.
The term "Achilles' tendon" is derived from Greek mythology, named after the hero Achilles, who was invulnerable except for his heel. According to myth, this vulnerable point ultimately led to his downfall, hence the connection between the term and the idea of a weakness.