Flimsy

Flimsy is an adjective used to describe something that is weak, thin, or insubstantial. It can refer to physical objects that are easily broken or torn, such as a flimsy chair or a flimsy umbrella, as well as to non-physical things like arguments, explanations, or plans that lack strength or credibility. The term often conveys a sense of fragility or insufficient support.

The word originates from the noun form flimsy, which denotes a light, inexpensive, or easily damaged material. The adjective sense evolved to characterize not just materials but also the quality or reliability of constructs built from them, leading to broad figurative use.

Common usage includes phrases like a flimsy excuse, a flimsy argument, flimsy evidence, or flimsy construction. The noun form flimsy remains used to refer to thin or weak material, and the related noun flimsiest or flimsiest can appear in comparative or superlative contexts.

In analysis and critique, flimsy implies doubt about durability, rigor, or validity and often signals that stronger evidence, more careful design, or more robust reasoning is required. Related terms include insubstantial, weak, tenuous, and frail, while antonyms include sturdy, solid, substantial, and robust. Flimsy is a common evaluative descriptor across domains such as engineering, literature, and everyday language.