fragile
Handle the package carefully—it contains fragile items.
The items inside are delicate and could break if mishandled.
Easily damaged or broken; delicate.
The antique vase was too fragile to ship without special packaging.
The old vase could easily shatter during transport.
Her fragile health made her avoid strenuous activities.
Her weak constitution prevented her from engaging in demanding tasks.
Often used literally for physical objects, but can describe emotional or social states metaphorically (e.g., 'a fragile ego').
Likely to fail or collapse under pressure; unstable.
The company's fragile financial situation worried investors.
The company's weak financial state made investors anxious about its survival.
Common in business, psychology, and social contexts to describe precarious states.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'fragile' vs. 'vulnerable'
'Fragile' emphasizes physical or systemic weakness, while 'vulnerable' often implies susceptibility to harm (e.g., 'vulnerable to disease').
Gold Rule
Use 'fragile' for physical delicacy
Reserve 'fragile' for objects that can break easily (e.g., 'fragile glassware'). For people, use 'vulnerable' or 'delicate' to avoid implying weakness.
Word Origin
From Latin *fragilis* (breakable), derived from *frangere* (to break). Entered English in the 15th century via Old French *fragile*.
Usage Notes
1. Literal use: Describes physical objects (e.g., glass, china). 2. Figurative use: Describes emotional, social, or systemic weakness. Avoid overusing in formal writing unless describing instability.