it was fragile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was fragile" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is delicate or easily broken, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "The antique vase was beautiful, but I had to handle it with care because it was fragile."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Though no one was up there playing it, the piano functioned as an embodiment of the music, and, as the Satie went on, the piano's ominous threat — it was difficult to avoid the thought of this huge, heavy thing crashing to the floor — seemed an apt match for the music, which, though it was fragile, almost innocent, carried its own sense of unease.

The New Yorker

"It was fragile architecture, difficult to maintain.

The New York Times

It was fragile; it was, in evolutionary terms, very young".

The Guardian

It was turquoise, but it was fragile – the band on it was weakening.

The Guardian

Some recovery of economic prosperity occurred, though it was fragile and uneven.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In contrast, scaffold-free cartilage tissue cultured under static conditions could not keep their shapes; it was fragile tissue.

Journal of Biotechnology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"It's fragile, but its shell will support itself".

The New York Times - Sports

Russian President Vladimir Putin, its co-mastermind, admitted that it is "fragile".

The New Yorker

"But it's fragile".

The New York Times

It is fragile.

The New York Times

They said it is fragile".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was fragile", ensure the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid repeating "it was fragile" multiple times within a short passage. Vary your language by using synonyms like "it was delicate" or "it was vulnerable" to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was fragile" functions as a descriptive statement, attributing the quality of fragility to a subject in the past. Ludwig's examples show it modifying physical objects, abstract concepts, and even situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was fragile" is used to describe something that exhibited a lack of strength or resilience in the past. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and conveys vulnerability or instability. While it appears most frequently in news and media sources, its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts. Be mindful of potential overuse and consider synonyms to maintain clarity and engagement in your writing. Remember to clearly define what "it" refers to, ensuring your message is easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was delicate

Emphasizes the refined and easily damaged nature of something.

it was vulnerable

Highlights the susceptibility to harm or damage.

it was unstable

Indicates a lack of firmness or steadiness, prone to change or collapse.

it was precarious

Stresses the uncertainty and risk involved.

it was breakable

Focuses on the potential for something to shatter or be destroyed.

it was flimsy

Suggests a lack of substance or strength.

it was brittle

Highlights the rigidity and tendency to snap easily.

it was tenuous

Emphasizes the slightness or insignificance, easily broken or disrupted.

it was insecure

Indicates a lack of safety or stability.

it was weak

Implies a lack of physical or metaphorical strength.

FAQs

What does "it was fragile" mean?

The phrase "it was fragile" means that something was easily broken, damaged, or otherwise vulnerable. It can refer to physical objects or more abstract concepts like relationships or economies.

How can I use "it was fragile" in a sentence?

You can use "it was fragile" to describe the state of something that is not strong or resilient. For example: "The antique vase was beautiful, but "it was fragile"." or "The peace treaty was signed, but "it was fragile" and could easily collapse."

What can I say instead of "it was fragile"?

Alternatives to "it was fragile" include "it was delicate", "it was vulnerable", "it was unstable", or "it was precarious", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between saying "it was fragile" and "it is fragile"?

Yes, "it was fragile" indicates that something used to be fragile in the past, while "it is fragile" indicates that something is currently fragile. The choice depends on whether the fragility is ongoing or a past condition.