Meaning of the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak | Babel Free
Definitions
As much as one wishes to achieve something, the frailties of the human body often make it impossible. Sometimes extended to jocular or organizational referents.
Equivalents
日本語
心熱けれど肉体は弱し
Nederlands
de geest is gewillig, maar het vlees is zwak
Русский
дух бодр, плоть же немощна
Examples
“It’s obvious that when it comes to business vs government regulation the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
“I should have more willpower, but as the saying goes, “the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Thus, all too often, instead of going to waste, my leftovers go to “waist.””
“We are enjoying the aftermath of an all-grandkid weekend: fatigue, muscle cramps and a blue bucket filled with cicada shells by the back door. We will rebound shortly. Thanksgiving sounds about right. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak—especially when you are outnumbered 11 to two.”
CEFR level
C2
Mastery
This word is part of the CEFR C2 vocabulary — mastery level.
This word is part of the CEFR C2 vocabulary — mastery level.