the weaker vessel (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun Phrase

Phonetic Transcription

/ðə ˈwiːkər ˈvɛsəl/

Meaning and Usage

"The weaker vessel" is an idiomatic expression that is often interpreted as a reference to women, suggesting they are physically or emotionally weaker than men. This phrase has biblical origins and is sometimes used in discussions around gender roles and the perception of strength in different contexts. The phrase is not commonly used in everyday conversation and is more prevalent in written texts, especially those exploring gender studies, religious texts, or historical literature.

Example Sentences

1. In many cultures, women were traditionally regarded as the weaker vessel, expected to fulfill roles that emphasize nurturing rather than combat.

2. В многих культурах женщины традиционно рассматривались как более слабый сосуд, ожидая выполнения ролей, подчеркивающих заботу, а не борьбу.

3. The notion that a woman is the weaker vessel has been challenged by many modern feminists advocating for equality.

4. Понятие о том, что женщина является более слабым сосудом, было оспорено многими современными феминистками, выступающими за равенство.

5. Discussions about the weaker vessel concept should consider both cultural and historical perspectives to truly understand its implications.

6. Обсуждения концепции более слабого сосуда должны учитывать как культурные, так и исторические перспективы, чтобы по-настоящему понять ее последствия.

Idiomatic Expressions

"The weaker vessel" is not typically integrated into many idiomatic expressions in modern English. However, it does form part of discussions around gender stereotypes and related expressions. Below are some relevant idiomatic expressions that involve ideas of strength and vulnerability:

1. "The fairer sex" - This expression often refers to women and implies notions of beauty and delicateness.

2. Женщины иногда называют "более прекрасным полом", что подразумевает понятия красоты и утонченности.

3. "Damsel in distress" - A phrase describing a woman who is in need of rescue, often used in literature and film, reinforcing the idea of vulnerability.

4. Фраза "дама в бедственном положении" описывает женщину, нуждающуюся в спасении, часто используется в литературе и кино, что усиливает представление о уязвимости.

5. "Steel magnolia" - An expression used to describe a woman who is both strong and fragile, showcasing the duality of strength and vulnerability.

6. Выражение "стальной магнолия" используется для описания женщины, которая одновременно сильна и хрупка, подчеркивая двойственность силы и уязвимости.

Etymology

The term "weaker vessel" derives from the Bible, specifically from 1 Peter 3:7, where it refers to wives as the "weaker vessel." The scripture has been debated and interpreted in various ways over the years, contributing to the phrase's lasting place in discussions about gender relations.

Synonyms

• More fragile entity
• Physically weaker counterpart

Antonyms

• Stronger vessel
• More robust entity