What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
runt
Example
The runt of the litter was much smaller than its siblings. [runt: noun]
Example
He was always picked on for being the runt of the class. [runt: noun]
Example
This computer is the runt of the series and has fewer features than the others. [runt: noun]
weakling
Example
He was always seen as a weakling because he couldn't lift heavy weights. [weakling: noun]
Example
She was called a weakling for not standing up to the bully. [weakling: noun]
Example
The weakling plant couldn't survive the harsh winter. [weakling: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Weakling is more commonly used than runt in everyday language. Weakling is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while runt is less common and refers specifically to the smallest or weakest in a group.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between runt and weakling?
Both runt and weakling are informal words and are not appropriate for formal contexts.
