frailty
C1Formal, literary, philosophical, medical.
Definition
Meaning
The condition of being physically weak and delicate, or moral weakness and susceptibility to temptation.
A fault or weakness in character, especially a minor one; the inherent imperfection or vulnerability of the human condition.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often carries a tone of pity, resignation, or philosophical reflection on human nature. Can refer to both physical and moral weakness, sometimes simultaneously.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical. Slightly more common in British literary/philosophical contexts.
Connotations
In both varieties, connotes a dignified, almost tragic vulnerability rather than simple failure.
Frequency
Low-frequency, elevated word in both dialects.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
the frailty of [something abstract: human nature, the argument, the system]frailty in [character, judgement, design]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[To be] a frail reed (someone unreliable)”
- “The frailty of human affairs (the transient nature of life)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Possibly in risk management: 'The frailty of the supply chain was exposed.'
Academic
Common in philosophy, literature, sociology, and gerontology to discuss human vulnerability.
Everyday
Uncommon. Used for serious reflection: 'We must forgive each other's frailties.'
Technical
In clinical geriatrics, 'frailty' is a measurable syndrome of reduced physiological reserve.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- His illness showed his frailty.
- She loved him despite his frailties.
- The novel explores the moral frailty of its heroes.
- The policy failed due to a fundamental frailty in its design.
- Beneath his stern exterior lay a profound awareness of human frailty.
- Geriatricians assess levels of frailty to predict health outcomes.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a fragile (FRA-gile) tile (TILE-y) — easily broken = FRAILTY.
Conceptual Metaphor
HUMAN CHARACTER IS A PHYSICAL STRUCTURE ('a flaw in his moral fabric', 'her resolve showed cracks'). LIFE IS A FRAGILE VESSEL.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'хрупкость' (fragility of objects). 'Frailty' is for living beings/character. Closer to 'слабость', 'немощь', 'непрочность (моральная)'.
Common Mistakes
- Using it for objects ('the frailty of the glass' – use 'fragility'). Confusing it with 'fraud'. Misspelling as 'frality'.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'frailty' LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Frailty' is more formal and often implies a inherent, poignant, or dignified vulnerability, especially of the human condition. 'Weakness' is broader and more neutral, covering lack of strength, character flaws, or lesser aspects of something.
Rarely positively, but it can be used compassionately or to evoke empathy. Recognising shared human frailty can be a basis for forgiveness and connection.
No. While associated with ageing, it describes any physical or moral vulnerability. A young person can show 'frailty of judgement'.
'Frail'. E.g., 'a frail old woman', 'a frail excuse'.
Explore