frail - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
frail Word Meanings
- weak or delicate
- easily broken or damaged
- not strong in health
frail Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
frail Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/freɪl/
US
/freɪl/
frail Word Etymology
frail = frail + -ity (a condition of being weak); Latin fragilis → Old French frail → English. Imagine a delicate piece of glass, beautiful but easily shattered, representing frailty.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
frail describes someone or something that is physically weak, delicate, or easily damaged. It is used for people with limited health or endurance, like a frail elderly patient or a frail constitution, and for objects that are fragile or prone to breaking, such as a frail vase. The word can also appear in metaphorical contexts to indicate vulnerability in situations or systems, like a frail economy or frail peace, where stability is uncertain. In everyday speech, frail often carries a cautious, gentle tone, signaling a need to handle the subject with care. Learners should notice that frail emphasizes vulnerability rather than deliberate weakness alone.
Usage Reminders
- Use frail for ongoing vulnerability in people or systems.
- Pair with health terms like frail health or frail constitution.
- Apply frail to objects that are physically delicate, such as a frail vase.
- Differentiate frail from fragile: frail emphasizes vulnerability, fragile emphasizes physical breakability.
- Practice with figurative phrases like frail economy or frail peace, noting tone and context.
Common Misconceptions
- Frailty refers only to old or sick people.
- Frail means cowardly or weak-willed.
- Frail and fragile are always interchangeable.
- Frail describes strength in difficult situations.
- Calling a sturdy object frail is acceptable.
Thinking Differences
Frail emphasizes vulnerability and enduring weakness, not a one-off lack of strength. It is commonly used with health or social contexts, and with metaphorical meanings. Learners often swap with fragile or miss the nuance of ongoing fragility.
Learning Tips
- Study collocations: frail health, frail constitution, frail ego.
- Compare frail with fragile and robust.
- Notice tone: frail is cautious; fragile is physical fragility.
- Practice medical, social, and metaphorical contexts.
- Learn common phrases: frail economy, frail peace.
- Use context to decide nuances and avoid overgeneralizing.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'frail' mean?
A.Strong
B.Fast
C.Weak
D.Big
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence where 'frail' is used correctly:
A.She lifted the frail box with ease.
B.He ran a frail race and won.
C.The rock was too frail to hold the weight.
D.The frail tree stood tall in the wind.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'frail'?
A.Robust
B.Feeble
C.Sturdy
D.Durable
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what situation would someone be described as 'frail'?
A.Winning a weightlifting competition
B.Recovering from an illness
C.Running a marathon
D.Building a house
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where 'frail' could be used?
A.Working out at the gym
B.Playing in a sports tournament
C.Walking through a nursing home
D.Cooking a big meal
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