extremely frail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extremely frail" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is very weak or delicate, often in a physical sense. Example: "After the illness, she appeared extremely frail and needed assistance to walk."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

She comes upon an extremely frail woman who asks for "anything light".

The New York Times - Books

"She is still in her prime mentally and producing remarkable stuff; but she is extremely frail," said Ms Morris.

The Guardian

At the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games in London, he seemed extremely frail and was only able to walk a few steps.

The Guardian - Sport

Applause began, and as the pope, looking extremely frail, slowly moved toward the altar, the clapping swept backward in waves across the square.

The New York Times - Travel

Some water companies will also allow those who are extremely frail or who have mobility issues to water their garden with a hosepipe, provided they register with them first.

The Guardian

Though looking extremely frail, supported by family and with her head covered in a black scarf, she raised laughter at the service when she recalled how he taught her to climb trees without telling her how to get back down again.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

In 2000 he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer and underwent drastic surgery that left him thereafter extremely slender and apparently physically frail; sadly the disease caught up with him in the end.

Independent

Although increasingly bowed and looking more frail, the Prince Philip remains extremely fit for his age.

The Guardian

Since selection into ICCS is based on criticality of need it would have been extremely difficult to deny services to one old person living alone and in frail health and not to another in a similar situation.

Health Care Management Science

Even if elderly patients with dizziness are very frail, the completion of provocation maneuvers is imperative, since the therapeutic maneuvers are extremely effective.

Clinical interventions in aging

Ms. O'Connor's extremely close-cropped hair makes her look both vulnerable and adamant; her clothing - a bustier and tight black jeans - emphasized her frail frame.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person as "extremely frail", provide context about the cause of their frailty, such as age, illness, or injury, to offer a more complete picture.

Common error

Avoid using "extremely frail" in overly dramatic or exaggerated contexts where it might sound hyperbolic. Ensure the description aligns with the actual state of the subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extremely frail" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, describing a state of significant physical weakness or delicacy. Ludwig AI confirms that it's correct and usable, with examples ranging from describing people's physical condition to the state of the labor market.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extremely frail" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjective phrase to describe a state of significant weakness or delicacy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in various contexts, ranging from formal to neutral, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using "extremely frail", consider the nuance you wish to convey and the cause of the frailty. Remember to avoid overly dramatic or exaggerated descriptions. Semantically related alternatives include "very weak", "highly delicate", and "incredibly fragile".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

particularly frail

A slightly more formal synonym, retaining the core meaning.

very weak

Focuses on the lack of physical strength.

exceedingly weak

Similar to very weak, but with a more formal tone.

highly delicate

Emphasizes the susceptibility to damage or harm.

incredibly fragile

Highlights the ease with which something can be broken.

utterly feeble

Stresses the complete lack of strength or vigor.

quite vulnerable

Highlights susceptibility to physical or emotional harm.

remarkably infirm

Focuses on the weakness associated with old age or illness.

noticeably weakened

Indicates an observed decline in strength or health.

distinctly delicate

Emphasizes a refined or fragile quality.

FAQs

How can I use "extremely frail" in a sentence?

You can use "extremely frail" to describe someone or something that is very weak or delicate. For example: "The elderly patient was "extremely frail" after the surgery."

What are some alternatives to saying "extremely frail"?

Alternatives to "extremely frail" include "very weak", "highly delicate", or "incredibly fragile", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "extremely frail" in formal writing?

Yes, "extremely frail" is appropriate in formal writing. While not overly technical, it accurately conveys a state of significant weakness or delicacy. Consider the context and audience to ensure it is the most suitable choice.

What is the difference between "extremely frail" and "somewhat frail"?

"Extremely frail" implies a very significant degree of weakness or delicacy, while "somewhat frail" suggests a milder condition. The choice depends on the actual state you are describing.