infirmity - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
infirmity Word Meanings
- a physical weakness or ailment
- a state of being weak or ill
- a moral weakness or failing
infirmity Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
infirmity Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈfɜːmɪti/
US
/ɪnˈfɜrmɪti/
infirmity Word Etymology
Root decomposition: in- (not) + firmus (strong); Historical origin: Latin infirmus → Old French enfirm → English infirmity. Memory image: Picture an old tree with weak branches that bend easily under the wind, symbolizing physical and moral weakness.
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
In everyday English, infirmity commonly refers to a physical weakness or illness that affects daily life. It can also describe a long‑standing condition or disability, and in more formal or literary contexts it may extend to moral weakness or a failing of character. Native speakers distinguish between temporary illness and chronic infirmity, and they often pair the noun with modifiers like chronic, temporary, or debilitating. Because infirmity sounds formal or old‑fashioned in casual conversation, learners usually substitute illness, sickness, weakness, or flaw depending on the exact sense. The term invites a sense of human fragility that is appropriate in medical, legal, or philosophical writing.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Infirmity is formal; prefer illness/weakness in casual speech.
- 2) Distinguish physical infirmity from moral weakness.
- 3) Often paired with modifiers like chronic, temporary, or debilitating.
- 4) Avoid 'infirmity of purpose' in everyday conversation; it's literary.
- 5) Use the term in medical, legal, or philosophical contexts to convey gravity.
Common Misconceptions
- It's only about old age or elderly people.
- It always means a serious illness or disability.
- It's interchangeable with 'illness' in any context.
- It describes moral flaws in casual speech.
- You should use it in everyday conversation instead of 'weakness' or 'flaw'.
Thinking Differences
English often reserves infirmity for formal, philosophical, or medical writing, so learners should avoid sounding archaic in everyday speech. In many contexts, simpler terms like illness or weakness carry the same idea without the heaviness. Pay attention to modifiers (chronic, temporary) and to collocations in legal or theological texts where infirmity appears with specific phrases.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two main senses (physical ailment and moral weakness) and spot which is intended in context.
- Pair infirmity with appropriate modifiers: chronic, temporary, debilitating.
- Prefer simpler words in casual speech: illness, sickness, weakness, flaw.
- Use in formal contexts like medical texts or philosophical discussions to convey gravity.
- Practice distinguishing similar terms (frailty, incapacity, defect) to avoid confusion.
- Read classic or legal passages to see how infirmity is used historically.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'infirmity'?
A.An act of kindness
B.A strong belief
C.A physical or mental weakness
D.A state of happiness
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'infirmity' correctly?
A.She displayed great infirmity during the athletic competition.
B.The team had an infirmity strategy for winning.
C.His infirmity prevented him from attending the party.
D.Learning a new language is often met with infirmity.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is the closest synonym to 'infirmity'?
A.Weakness
B.Strength
C.Joy
D.Influence
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'infirmity'?
A.Illness
B.Suffering
C.Health
D.Fragility
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might experience an infirmity?
A.An elderly person might struggle with physical limitations due to age.
B.A doctor treats patients with severe infections.
C.A child demonstrates great energy while playing outside.
D.A teacher gives a lecture on health and fitness.
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