flimsy evidence

[/ˈflɪmzi ˈɛvɪdəns/]
noun phrase
evidência frágil / prova fraca
1. weak, insubstantial, or unconvincing proof or documentation that lacks solidity and is easily challenged or refuted
The prosecutor's case relied on flimsy evidence that the defense easily dismantled.
O caso do promotor se baseava em evidência frágil que a defesa facilmente desmontou.
2. insufficient factual support that does not adequately substantiate a claim, accusation, or conclusion
The allegations were supported only by flimsy evidence from anonymous sources.
As alegações eram apoiadas apenas por prova fraca de fontes anônimas.
In both Brazilian and American legal contexts, the concept of 'flimsy evidence' is crucial to the justice system. In Brazil, the phrase reflects the importance of 'prova robusta' (robust evidence) in judicial proceedings. In American culture, this term is frequently used in legal dramas and discussions about due process, reflecting the constitutional protection against conviction on insufficient evidence. The phrase emphasizes the principle that accusations must be supported by substantial proof, not mere suspicion or weak documentation.
NYC Slang
weak sauce / thin alibi / sketchy proof
Synonyms / Sinônimos
weak evidenceinconclusive evidencecircumstantial evidenceinsufficient evidencescant evidencethin evidencedubious evidence
Antonyms / Antônimos
solid evidenceconcrete evidenceconclusive evidenceirrefutable evidencecompelling evidencesubstantial evidence

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
evidência frágil / prova fraca
Most common usage across all Brazilian regions
Rio de Janeiro
prova mole / evidência furada
Colloquial variant using 'mole' (soft) or 'furada' (full of holes)
São Paulo
prova inconsistente / evidência vaga
More formal business and legal usage
Portugal
prova frágil / evidência débil
Portuguese prefers 'débil' over 'fraca' in formal contexts

Related Words

burden of proofreasonable doubtdue diligencesubstantiationcorroborationdocumentation

Related Idioms & Phrases

not hold up in court
fall apart under scrutiny
smoke and mirrors
house of cards
castle built on sand
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