Flimsy: meaning, definitions and examples

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flimsy

[ˈflɪmzi ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

material quality

Easily damaged or destroyed; lacking strength or solidity.

Synonyms

delicate, fragile, frail, weak.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flimsy	Used to describe something that is not well-made or lacks strength and solidity. Often implies something is poorly constructed or easily broken. This word can have a slightly negative connotation. The chair was so flimsy that it broke when she sat on it. His argument was flimsy and easily refuted.
fragile	Appropriate for describing objects or systems that can break, shatter, or fail easily. It can also refer to emotional or mental states. This term does not necessarily carry a negative connotation. Please handle the vase carefully, it’s very fragile. She was in a fragile state after the accident.
weak	Used to express the lack of strength, power, or intensity. This can refer to both physical strength and other forms of strength, such as arguments or structures. This word generally carries a negative connotation. He was too weak to lift the heavy box. The team's defense was weak and easily breached by their opponents.
delicate	Best used to talk about something that is fine, light, and easily damaged. Often used to describe things that are beautiful but require careful handling. The delicate lace of her wedding dress was handmade. He has a very delicate touch with animals.
frail	Typically used to describe people or animals that are physically weak or delicate due to age or illness. This term often evokes sympathy. The old woman was frail and needed assistance to walk. The kitten looked so frail and vulnerable.

Examples of usage

The flimsy structure collapsed after the storm.
Be careful with that flimsy glass, it may break easily.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

quality of argument

Lacking substance or basis; weak and unconvincing.

Synonyms

feeble, inadequate, shaky, unsubstantial.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flimsy	Used when something is physically weak or easily broken, can also imply a lack of credibility in an argument or excuse. The chair was so flimsy that it broke when he sat on it. Her excuse for being late was flimsy and unconvincing.
unsubstantial	Describes something that lacks solidity, weight, or importance. Can be used for both physical objects and abstract concepts like arguments. The painting was nice but unsubstantial in terms of artistic value. His claims were unsubstantial and lacked evidence.
shaky	Best used when describing something unstable or likely to fail. Can describe physical instability as well as uncertain situations. The table was shaky and about to collapse. Their business plan is shaky and needs improvement.
feeble	Often refers to physical weakness, lack of strength, or ineffectiveness, and can describe both people and efforts. The old man was feeble and needed help walking. His attempts to lift the box were feeble and unsuccessful.
inadequate	Indicates something that is insufficient, not enough, or lacking in quality or quantity. The resources provided for the project were inadequate. Her performance in the exam was inadequate for passing.

Examples of usage

The flimsy excuse he gave for being late was not believable.
The flimsy evidence presented in court was quickly dismissed.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'flimsy' likely originates from the term 'flimsie,' which means weak or frail, and first appeared in English in the early 19th century.
It's believed to be related to the old English word 'flimsy,' which meant 'fragile' or 'delicate.'

Literature

In literature, flimsy plotlines often refer to stories that lack depth or substance, making them less engaging to readers.
Authors may use 'flimsy' to describe characters or situations that are not fully developed, emphasizing vulnerability or uncertainty.

Pop Culture

Flimsy items often appear in comedic scenarios, like a flimsy chair collapsing under the weight of the character, adding humor to a scene.
In fashion, flimsy materials can be a trend, suggestive of ethereal designs that look beautiful yet often lack structure.

Science

In materials science, 'flimsy' might refer to substances that don't provide adequate support, requiring thicker materials for durability.
Studies on structures often classify them as 'flimsy' if they cannot withstand minor stress without deforming.

Psychology

Psychologists might use 'flimsy' to describe a person's fragile self-esteem, indicating they are easily hurt by criticism.
The term can also refer to reasoning or arguments that lack strength or evidence, which may lead to self-doubt.

Translations

Translations of the word "flimsy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 frágil

🇮🇳 कमज़ोर

🇩🇪 zerbrechlich

🇮🇩 rapuh

🇺🇦 тендітний

🇵🇱 kruchy

🇯🇵 もろい

🇫🇷 fragile

🇪🇸 frágil

🇹🇷 kırılgan

🇰🇷 약한

🇸🇦 هش

🇨🇿 křehký

🇸🇰 krehký

🇨🇳 脆弱

🇸🇮 krhek

🇮🇸 brothætt

🇰🇿 морт

🇬🇪 მყიფე

🇦🇿 kövrək

🇲🇽 frágil

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,900, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17897 unsold
17898 drummer
17899 consulate
17900 flimsy
17901 abounding
17902 succulent
17903 groping
...