flimsy or frail?

Flimsy describes things that are badly made. Frail describes living things that have grown weak.

Both words mean something could break easily, so children use them interchangeably. The difference is what kind of thing is weak, and why.

Flimsy is for objects and materials that are thin or poorly made. A flimsy paper plate bends under a heavy slice of cake; a flimsy tent flaps and sags in the first gust of wind. Flimsy can also describe an excuse that nobody believes, like 'the dog ate my homework'.

Frail is for people and animals whose bodies have become weak, usually because they are very old or have been ill. A frail great-grandad might need a hand getting out of his chair. You would never call him flimsy: frail is a gentle, caring word, while flimsy is often a complaint.