a fragile time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fragile time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period characterized by instability, vulnerability, or sensitivity, often in a personal, social, or political context. Example: "During a fragile time in our relationship, we needed to communicate openly and honestly to avoid misunderstandings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Pregnancy is a fragile time, especially a first pregnancy.

The New York Times

"This is a fragile time for all teams.

The New York Times - Sports

Experts say Mandela was concerned about upsetting economic stability during a fragile time.

Independent

This could not be more important today, which is a fragile time for free speech.

The Guardian - Music

Republicans counter that the law will crimp the banking industry's profit-making engines at a fragile time for the American economy.

The New York Times

On the official side, the IMF's coffers should be topped up to let it do its job at a fragile time.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Such a decision will also have a damaging effect, say analysts, at a politically fragile time that saw a long impasse in forming a government after elections in March.

Independent

Brownstein says that Obama has to keep saying that we are "moving in the right direction" -- a very fragile argument in a very fragile time.

Huffington Post

I was in a very fragile time then -- and I did stop for a year.

Los Angeles Times

In a less tangible way, I feel I am in Alaska at a very fragile time.

Vice

And when they are deployed it is a strange, fragile time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a fragile time", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately reflects the sense of vulnerability or instability you wish to convey. Choose stronger synonyms if needed.

Common error

Avoid using "a fragile time" as a generic placeholder for any difficult period. Provide specific details about why the time is fragile, such as economic instability, political uncertainty, or personal vulnerability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fragile time" functions as a noun phrase, with "fragile" modifying the noun "time". It typically serves to describe a period marked by instability, vulnerability, or sensitivity. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a fragile time" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe periods of instability or vulnerability. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media, it serves to highlight the delicate nature of a situation, whether economic, political, or personal. Alternatives like "a precarious moment" or "a vulnerable period" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly supports the sense of fragility to avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a precarious moment

Replaces "fragile" with "precarious", emphasizing uncertainty and risk.

a vulnerable period

Substitutes "fragile" with "vulnerable", stressing susceptibility to harm.

a delicate juncture

Uses "delicate" and "juncture" to suggest a critical and sensitive point.

an unstable era

Replaces "fragile" with "unstable" and "time" with "era", focusing on lack of stability over a longer duration.

a sensitive stage

Emphasizes the need for careful handling and consideration.

a critical phase

Highlights the importance and potential consequences of the time.

a testing moment

Focuses on the challenges and difficulties of the time.

a turbulent period

Suggests a time of great disturbance and change.

a shaky phase

Implies a lack of firmness or stability.

a critical turning point

Emphasizes the importance of the moment as a determinant of future outcomes.

FAQs

How can "a fragile time" be used effectively in a sentence?

Use "a fragile time" to describe situations characterized by instability, vulnerability, or sensitivity. For example: "The economy is in "a fragile time" due to the recent market crash".

What are some alternatives to saying "a fragile time"?

You can use alternatives such as "a precarious moment", "a vulnerable period", or "a delicate juncture" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "a fragile time"?

Yes, "a fragile time" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English. It follows standard English grammar rules.

In what contexts is "a fragile time" most appropriately used?

"A fragile time" is suitable for describing economic downturns, political transitions, personal crises, or any situation where stability is threatened. It's often used in news articles, academic papers, and business reports.