fortalezas y debilidades
/foɾtaleθas i debilidades/from spelling rules
The English phrase "strengths and weaknesses" is translated into Spanish as fortalezas y debilidades.
This phrase refers to the positive qualities and the areas that need improvement in a person's character or performance. It is commonly used in professional contexts, such as job interviews or performance reviews, to discuss a person's profile. For example, one might discuss a specific trait like impaciencia (impatience) when identifying areas for improvement.
What does it mean word for word?
The word fortalezas is the plural of fortaleza, which literally means 'strength' or 'fortress'. The word debilidades is the plural of debilidad, which literally means 'weakness'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The conjunction y (and) is used to connect the two nouns in this phrase.
How do you pronounce it?
/foɾtaleθas i debilidades/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, the word debilidad is frequently used to describe a 'soft spot' or an irresistible fondness for something, such as tener una debilidad por el chocolate. In this context, it describes a craving rather than a character flaw.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, if someone asks about your 'debilidades' in a job interview, it is often considered more polite to refer to them as 'áreas de oportunidad' (areas of opportunity).
- The word debilidad shares a root with the English word 'ability' through the concept of 'being able' or 'having the power' to act, though in Spanish it focuses on the lack thereof.
Examples in context
- Todo el mundo tiene fortalezas y debilidades.Everyone has strengths and weaknesses.This sentence shows how to state that everyone possesses both strengths and weaknesses using fortalezas y debilidades.Tatoeba #2658 by sarostegui, translation #1453 by kebukebu
- Mis fortalezas son la honestidad, la perseverancia y la capacidad de trabajo en equipo.My strengths are honesty, perseverance and the ability to work in a team.
- Soy bueno/a en resolver problemas y tomar decisiones rápidamente.I am good at solving problems and making decisions quickly.
- Tengo problemas con la organización y la puntualidad.I have problems with organization and punctuality.
- Debemos analizar nuestras fortalezas y debilidades para el proyecto.We must analyze our strengths and weaknesses for the project.
- El psicólogo habló sobre mis fortalezas y debilidades.The psychologist spoke about my strengths and weaknesses.
Example conversation
María and Javier are discussing a job interview preparation.
- MaríaJavier, ¿has pensado en tus fortalezas y debilidades?Javier, have you thought about your strengths and weaknesses?
- JavierSí, María, estoy preparando mi respuesta.Yes, María, I am preparing my answer.
- MaríaEs muy importante ser honesto en la entrevista.It is very important to be honest in the interview.
- JavierTienes razón, gracias por el consejo.You are right, thanks for the advice.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries y, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
