fragile body

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fragile body" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a physical form that is delicate or easily damaged, often in contexts related to health, vulnerability, or sensitivity. Example: "After the accident, she felt as though she was living in a fragile body, constantly aware of her limitations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Tutankhamun's fragile body has lain undisturbed since an x-ray examination in 1968.

The Guardian

Ctenophores represent a basal metazoan phylum9 of generally very fragile body structure.

Nature

When I left him, he was almost asleep, holding the suddenly enormous book to his fragile body.

The New York Times

Has given up first class cricket to protect his fragile body for 50-over and Twenty20 games.

The Guardian - Sport

He has done it all with an incredibly fragile body that has given way on many occasions.

The Guardian - Sport

Cheryl has never worked with someone like Mark, who must remain on his back, his thin, fragile body painfully contorted.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

"Rockets smash and penetrate their fragile bodies.

The New York Times

Cots and gurneys are hard on fragile bodies.

The Washington Post

A raw, unending bloodlust that cannot be sated, no matter how many of your fragile bodies I bash, drown, or disembowel.

The New Yorker

On stage, the dynamic of Rite is intensely visceral: fragile bodies pitted against gravity, the urgency of desire pitted against mortality and chaos.

The Guardian

He relished the knowledge that it was created out of the fluky, fragile bodies of men and women, that it was rooted in the here and now.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character in fiction, use "fragile body" to subtly convey their vulnerability or illness, setting the tone for their narrative arc.

Common error

Avoid using "fragile body" in action-oriented descriptions where the focus should be on agility or strength. This phrase is more suitable for conveying vulnerability rather than physical prowess.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "fragile body" is as a noun phrase, where "fragile" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "body". It describes a state or condition of the physical form, often implying vulnerability. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase's correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science & Research

14%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fragile body" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a physical form that is delicate or easily damaged. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used in contexts relating to health, vulnerability, and sensitivity. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various types of writing, from news articles and scientific reports to creative writing. When using the phrase, consider alternatives like "delicate physique" or "vulnerable frame" to add nuance to your descriptions. The most common error is to overuse it in action sequences, where a focus on strength or agility might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delicate physique

Emphasizes the physical build and its delicacy.

delicate build

Similar to "delicate physique", but focuses more on the physical structure.

vulnerable frame

Highlights the susceptibility to harm or damage of the body's structure.

frail constitution

Focuses on the overall health and robustness of the body.

susceptible physique

Highlights the body's predisposition to illness or injury.

weakened physical state

Describes the body's current condition of reduced strength.

unhealthy body

Focuses on overall lack of health.

feeble form

Indicates a lack of physical strength or vitality.

brittle bones

Specifically emphasizes the fragility of the skeletal structure.

tender flesh

Emphasizes the softness and vulnerability of the skin and muscle.

FAQs

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

You can use "fragile body" to describe someone who is physically weak, ill, or easily injured. For example, "Despite his "fragile body", he possessed a strong spirit".

What are some alternatives to "fragile body"?

Some alternatives include "delicate physique", "vulnerable frame", or "frail constitution", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "fragile body" in a formal context?

Yes, "fragile body" can be used in formal contexts, especially when discussing health, medicine, or personal conditions. However, consider the specific audience and the overall tone of your communication.

What is the difference between "fragile body" and "weak body"?

"Fragile body" suggests a vulnerability to injury or illness, while "weak body" implies a lack of physical strength. A "fragile body" might be easily broken, whereas a "weak body" might simply lack muscle or stamina.