What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
infirm
Example
The infirm patient required constant care from the nurses. [infirm: adjective]
Example
She became increasingly infirm as she aged. [infirm: adjective]
frail
Example
The frail old woman needed help crossing the street. [frail: adjective]
Example
His health was so frail that he had to be hospitalized frequently. [frail: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Frail is more commonly used than infirm in everyday language. Frail is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while infirm is less common and more specialized.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between infirm and frail?
Both infirm and frail are formal words that are typically used in medical or clinical contexts. However, frail can also be used in more informal contexts, while infirm is less versatile and more technical.
