A chink in somebody’s armour
phrase
A person's weakness or vulnerability.
His inability to resist pressure was a chink in his armour, making him an easy target.

Often appears as...
- find a chink in armour
- have a chink in armour
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
A person's weakness or vulnerability.
His inability to resist pressure was a chink in his armour, making him an easy target.

Often appears as...
- find a chink in armour
- have a chink in armour
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1

Figurative Use
The phrase is a metaphor from medieval armor, meaning it's not about actual armor but a person's weak point.

Despite his experience, not adapting to new technology was a chink in his armour.
Negative Connotation
This phrase often implies a weakness that could be exploited by others.

Her short temper is a chink in her armour that her opponents use to their advantage.
Not Always Obvious
The weakness described by the phrase may not be apparent at first and could require insight to identify.

He seemed invincible until we discovered a chink in his armour – his fear of public speaking.
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