Word
flimsy
Phoneticsflim·sy, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈfɫɪmzi/
UK/flˈɪmzi/
Definition
adj. describes something that is thin, weak, and breaks easily. You can also use it for an excuse or argument that is not very convincing.
adj. characterised by a lack of physical strength or structural integrity; easily damaged. When applied to abstract concepts like evidence or excuses, it indicates a lack of plausibility or persuasive force.
Examples
“The flimsy table broke when I sat on it.”
“The suspect provided a flimsy alibi that the detectives easily disproved within an hour of the interview.”
“Constructed from flimsy materials that were never intended to withstand the coastal winds, the temporary pavilion collapsed during the first autumn storm.”
Examples
simple
“The flimsy table broke when I sat on it.”
contextual
“The suspect provided a flimsy alibi that the detectives easily disproved within an hour of the interview.”
complex
“Constructed from flimsy materials that were never intended to withstand the coastal winds, the temporary pavilion collapsed during the first autumn storm.”
Usage
Often used both literally for physical objects and figuratively for arguments or excuses.
Real-World Examples
“The “petals” that fold in and out to expand the steamer are a much sturdier design than the metal versions, which often feel flimsy and cheaply made.” “And when its words are flimsy, non-committal, or weak, the world notices that too.” “The T-grip is suitable for all hand sizes and is good for applying force to the spade, but if you’re not used to the shape, it can feel flimsy.” Etymology
The origin of the adjective is uncertain; it is possibly from flim(-flam) (“(noun) false information presented as true, misinformation, nonsense; poor attempt at deception, confidence trick, pretence; (adjective) frivolous, nonsensical; deceptive; fictitious”) or a metathesis of film (“thin layer of a substance; slender thread”) + -sy (suffix forming adjectives and nouns). The noun and verb are derived from the noun. Noun noun sense 4 (“metal container”) refers to the fact that the containers often split along their seams and leaked.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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