fragile structure

[/ˈfrædʒəl ˈstrʌktʃər/]
noun phrasepl: fragile structures
estrutura frágil
1. A physical or abstract construction that is easily damaged, broken, or weakened; lacking strength or durability
The old bridge is a fragile structure that requires constant maintenance.
A ponte antiga é uma estrutura frágil que requer manutenção constante.
2. A delicate system or organization that is vulnerable to disruption or collapse
The peace agreement is a fragile structure that could collapse at any moment.
O acordo de paz é uma estrutura frágil que pode desabar a qualquer momento.
3. In psychology or sociology, a weak foundation or support system that lacks resilience
Their relationship was built on a fragile structure of trust that was easily broken.
O relacionamento deles foi construído sobre uma estrutura frágil de confiança que foi facilmente quebrada.
In Brazil, 'estrutura frágil' is commonly used in business, engineering, and social contexts. The phrase appears frequently in discussions about economic policies, infrastructure, and social safety nets. In American English, the concept is often expressed through metaphorical idioms like 'house of cards' when discussing financial systems or agreements.
NYC Slang
shaky setup; rickety deal
Synonyms / Sinônimos
delicate frameworkweak constructionunstable systembrittle structureshaky foundation
Antonyms / Antônimos
robust structuresolid constructionstrong frameworkstable systemdurable edifice

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
estrutura frágil
Standard usage throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
estrutura frágil / estrutura delicada
Both terms commonly used; 'delicada' also popular in informal speech
São Paulo
estrutura frágil
Preferred in technical and formal contexts
Portugal
estrutura frágil / estrutura precária
'Precária' often preferred in European Portuguese for systems or organizations

Related Words

fragilitystructural integrityvulnerabilityresiliencestabilitydurability

Related Idioms & Phrases

built on thin ice
house of cards
hanging by a thread
no solid ground
estrutura de vidro (glass structure - Portuguese idiom)
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