‘弱势’ literally combines ‘弱’ (weak, feeble) and ‘势’ (power, influence, or position), forming a noun meaning ‘disadvantaged group’ or ‘those in a weaker social, economic, or physical position.’ It does not describe individual weakness but rather systemic vulnerability — often used in policy, education, healthcare, and social welfare contexts to refer to people who face barriers due to age, disability, income, gender, ethnicity, or health status.

The term carries a respectful, empathetic register and is commonly paired with words like ‘群体’ (group), ‘地位’ (status), or ‘保护’ (protection). Unlike adjectives such as ‘弱小’ (small and weak) or ‘脆弱’ (fragile), ‘弱势’ emphasizes structural inequality rather than inherent personal limitation. It frequently appears in formal discourse, news reports, and official documents advocating equity and inclusion.