Achilles heel

Achilles’ heel

Meaning

A fatal weakness in an otherwise strong person or thing.

Examples

JFK’s Achilles heel was his inability to ignore the charms of a long-legged blonde.

Where did it originate?

The United Kingdom – 19th century.

Where is it used?

Worldwide, but more commonly amongst the older generation.

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About the Author

Gary Martin

Writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.