a bit fragile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit fragile" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is somewhat delicate or easily broken, whether physically or metaphorically. Example: "The vase is a bit fragile, so please handle it with care."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

A bit fragile.

The New Yorker

Mr. Graham is feeling a bit fragile.

The New York Times

His confidence is a bit fragile, but it's a good test of character.

The Guardian - Sport

The only worry is that perhaps consumer confidence 'will be a bit fragile', Mr Bannister said.

The Guardian - Business

I haven't given up on getting out of our pool but our belief is a bit fragile at the moment.

Independent

In Rohmer's films, actors are a bit fragile, and he plays more on the weakness of actors, real weakness.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

"This gives us a mountain to climb and right now we're a little bit fragile".

BBC

Today I was a little bit fragile".

Independent

His writing makes me feel very human and a little bit fragile.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We were a little bit fragile in defence but during the 90 minutes we did everything to win.

The Guardian - Sport

"The senior players have been round the block and can block it out, but I hope the fans realise our younger ones are a little bit fragile and get behind us".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a bit fragile" to describe a person's emotional state, ensure the context provides sufficient support and sensitivity to avoid sounding dismissive or insensitive. For example, instead of simply stating "He's a bit fragile", provide context such as "He's a bit fragile after the recent loss, so please be gentle with him."

Common error

Avoid using "a bit fragile" as a standalone descriptor without providing adequate context. This can lead to misinterpretation and a lack of understanding. Instead, elaborate on the specific fragility and its underlying cause.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit fragile" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It describes the degree to which something or someone is delicate or easily damaged, whether physically or emotionally. As seen in the examples, it qualifies a subject by indicating a limited degree of vulnerability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bit fragile" is a common adjective phrase used to describe something that is somewhat delicate or easily broken, either physically or emotionally. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. It's most frequently found in News & Media, but also appears in academic and informal contexts. When using the phrase, be mindful of providing sufficient context to avoid misinterpretations. Related phrases include "slightly vulnerable" and "somewhat delicate". The phrase is generally neutral in tone and serves to express a limited degree of vulnerability. Given its frequent usage across reputable sources, it can be deemed appropriate for both formal and informal writing, provided it's used with sensitivity and awareness of the subject being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a shade vulnerable

Similar to 'slightly vulnerable' but with an even softer nuance.

slightly vulnerable

Emphasizes the susceptibility to harm or damage.

a tad delicate

Similar to 'somewhat delicate' but with a slightly more informal tone.

somewhat delicate

Highlights the fineness and potential for easy damage.

a little unstable

Focuses on the lack of firmness and potential for collapse or failure.

rather sensitive

Emphasizes a heightened responsiveness to external stimuli, both physical and emotional.

marginally weak

Suggests a slight deficiency in strength or resilience.

a touch insecure

Highlights a lack of confidence or stability, often in an emotional or psychological context.

somewhat brittle

Implies a tendency to break or shatter easily under pressure.

slightly flimsy

Focuses on the lack of solidity and potential for collapse.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit fragile" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit fragile" to describe something easily broken or someone in a delicate emotional state. For example: "The antique vase is "a bit fragile", handle with care" or "After the upsetting news, she's "a bit fragile"."

What's an alternative to "a bit fragile"?

Alternatives include "slightly vulnerable", "somewhat delicate", or "a little unstable", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a bit fragile" to describe a person?

Yes, it can be appropriate, but use caution. When describing a person as ""a bit fragile"", it usually refers to their emotional or mental state. Ensure you use it with sensitivity and avoid being dismissive of their feelings.

What is the difference between "a bit fragile" and "a little fragile"?

The difference is negligible. Both phrases, ""a bit fragile"" and "a little fragile", convey a similar meaning of something being somewhat delicate or easily broken. The choice between them is often a matter of personal preference.