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Flimsily: meaning, definitions and examples

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flimsily

 

[ ˈflɪmzɪli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

physical quality

Flimsily refers to something that is done in a weak, fragile, or insubstantial manner. It suggests a lack of robustness or durability, often implying that whatever is described cannot withstand pressure or scrutiny.

Synonyms

fragilely, lightly, weakly.

Examples of usage

  • The tent was flimsily constructed, falling apart in the wind.
  • She presented her argument flimsily, leaving room for doubt.
  • His flimsily written report failed to convince the committee.
Context #2 | Adverb

emotional expression

Flimsily can also describe a manner of expression that lacks seriousness or depth, often conveying insincerity or superficiality.

Synonyms

insincerely, superficially.

Examples of usage

  • He smiled flimsily, as if he didn't mean it.
  • The film's flimsily romantic plot failed to resonate with the audience.
  • Her flimsily articulated feelings left everyone confused.

Translations

Translations of the word "flimsily" in other languages:

🇵🇹 de maneira frágil

🇮🇳 कमज़ोरी से

🇩🇪 schwach

🇮🇩 dengan lemah

🇺🇦 слабко

🇵🇱 słabo

🇯🇵 脆弱に

🇫🇷 faiblement

🇪🇸 débilmente

🇹🇷 zayıf bir şekilde

🇰🇷 약하게

🇸🇦 بشكل ضعيف

🇨🇿 slabě

🇸🇰 slabo

🇨🇳 脆弱地

🇸🇮 šibko

🇮🇸 veikleika

🇰🇿 әлсіз түрде

🇬🇪 სუსტად

🇦🇿 zəif şəkildə

🇲🇽 débilmente

Etymology

The term 'flimsily' comes from the adjective 'flimsy,' which originated in the early 19th century as a modification of the word 'flim,' an English dialectical term meaning 'to flinch' or 'to shrink.' The root of the word relates to fragility and weakness. 'Flimsy' was first recorded around 1845 to describe materials that were weak or insubstantial. It began to be used in various contexts to describe not just physical objects but also arguments, ideas, and other intangible concepts that lacked strength or validity. The adverb 'flimsily' naturally emerged from the adjective, used to qualify actions or expressions that are perceived as lacking robustness or sincerity.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,076, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.