What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dotard
Example
The dotard struggled to remember his own name. [dotard: noun]
Example
She cared for her dotard grandmother who could no longer walk without assistance. [dotard: adjective]
frail
Example
The frail old woman needed help carrying her groceries. [frail: adjective]
Example
He was too frail to participate in the strenuous activity. [frail: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Frail is a more common word than dotard and is used in a wider range of contexts. It is a versatile word that can be used to describe anyone who is physically or emotionally vulnerable, while dotard is a more specific term that is less commonly used in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between dotard and frail?
Both dotard and frail are considered formal words and may not be appropriate in casual conversation. However, frail is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while dotard is less commonly used and may be considered outdated.