infirmity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'infirmity' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun that refers to a physical or mental weakness or ailment. For example, "The old man had many infirmities, and he was no longer able to live alone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Inevitably, old age and an acute awareness of the passing of time and growing bodily infirmity make up a large part of it.

The Guardian - Books

Age and infirmity are his main enemies, and perhaps the country's, since no mechanism exists to resolve what could be a bitter and internecine succession battle.

The Economist

The process could also be disrupted if assassination, infirmity or an election removes either General Musharraf or Mr Vajpayee from the scene.Agreeing to talk, moreover, is no more than that.

The Economist

Two books later, that statement still holds true.In this section A political lesson Market idol Facing the frenemy The crabbiness is all The crown prince of Culver City The coast of Utopia Correction: Ingar Sletten Kolloen ReprintsThis time the man felled by age and infirmity is Simon Axler, an actor who suffers a breakdown while portraying Prospero and Macbeth in repertory.

The Economist

Given voters' memories of the infirmity, not to mention corruption, of the late François Mitterrand in his second term as president, Mr Chirac may well reckon that a five-year term would give him a better chance of victory against Mr Jospin, a youthful 62.Now that so many seem to agree on the change, how should it be made?

The Economist

Given the infirmity of a large proportion of pensioners, the system would have to travel to them.

The Economist

The other is the fraudulent promise that technology will free us all from unhappiness and infirmity, prolong life and provide parents with brainy, well-adjusted children untouched by genetic handicap.

The Economist

Whether out of choice or infirmity, he is increasingly remote, and has alienated his most important democratic ally, the UML's Madhav Kumar Nepal.

The Economist

She seems a rather creepy, jejune and adolescent fantasy.Running throughout this book, as through "Everyman" and its successor, "Exit Ghost", is an odd feeling of contempt for the reader not because Mr Roth writes so unremittingly about death, solitude and infirmity, nor because his protagonists wallow in misery, but because characters soliloquise indifferently instead of talking.

The Economist

They have always been a consequence of self-deception and infirmity of purpose.As described by Mr Young, the British response to any large European initiative falls typically into three phases.

The Economist

FORGET about infirmity of purpose.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional impact of "infirmity" on individuals and communities. Words can shape and alter perceptions.

Common error

Avoid excessive use of euphemisms when describing "infirmity". While sensitivity is important, clear and direct language is often more effective in conveying information accurately and respectfully.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "infirmity" is as a noun, referring to a state of being weak or frail, whether physically, mentally, or morally. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples illustrating its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "infirmity" is a versatile noun used to describe a state of weakness or ailment, whether physical, mental, or moral. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and common usage across various authoritative sources, including news media, encyclopedias, and formal writing. The term carries a neutral to formal tone and is often used to provide a clinical description of a condition or explain its impact. While synonyms like "frailty" or "ailment" can be used interchangeably, "infirmity" suggests a broader or more abstract state of being weakened. When employing this term, it's vital to be specific, direct and clear, when clarity and sensitivity are both essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physical frailty

Emphasizes the physical weakness associated with "infirmity".

bodily weakness

Highlights the lack of physical strength or health.

ailment

Refers to a specific illness or medical condition.

debilitation

Focuses on the weakening effect of a disease or condition.

disease

Refers to a specific pathological condition.

physical defect

Highlights an imperfection or flaw in the body.

moral failing

Shifts the meaning to a weakness in character or ethics.

health problem

A general term for any issue affecting one's health.

weak spot

Can refer to both physical and metaphorical weaknesses.

vulnerability

Emphasizes the susceptibility to harm or illness.

FAQs

How can I use "infirmity" in a sentence?

You can use "infirmity" to describe a physical or moral weakness. For example, "Age and "infirmity" are his main enemies" or "Tacitus attributed Claudius's mistakes to "infirmity" of character".

What are some synonyms for "infirmity"?

Synonyms for "infirmity" include "frailty", "feebleness", "ailment", and "debility". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "infirmity" when discussing mental health?

Yes, "infirmity" can refer to both physical and mental weaknesses or ailments. However, be mindful of the context and use respectful language when discussing mental health issues.

What is the difference between "infirmity" and "disability"?

"Infirmity" generally refers to a weakness or ailment, while "disability" implies a more permanent or significant impairment that limits a person's ability to perform certain activities. An infirmity may or may not lead to a disability.