Adverb
/ˈtɛn.ju.əs.li/
The word "tenuously" derives from the adjective "tenuous," which means weak, slight, or insubstantial. When used as an adverb, "tenuously" describes actions or states that are weakly connected, fragile, or lacking a strong foundation.
In terms of frequency of use, "tenuously" is relatively uncommon and is more typically found in written contexts, such as academic and formal writing. It may occasionally appear in speech, especially among those who are familiar with advanced vocabulary.
The connection between the two theories was tenuously established, leaving room for further debate.
Translation: La conexión entre las dos teorías fue establecida tenuemente, dejando espacio para más debate.
The team clung tenuously to their lead as the final minutes of the game approached.
Translation: El equipo se aferró tenuemente a su ventaja a medida que se acercaban los últimos minutos del juego.
Her argument was tenuously supported by a few weak examples, which weakened her overall position.
Translation: Su argumento estaba tenuemente respaldado por algunos ejemplos débiles, lo que debilitó su posición general.
The word "tenuously" is not typically featured in well-known idiomatic expressions; however, it may appear in phrases that denote weak or uncertain connections. Here are some examples using related idiomatic phrases:
He held onto the idea of success tenuously, as the odds were against him.
Translation: Se aferró a la idea del éxito tenuemente, ya que las probabilidades estaban en su contra.
Their friendship was founded tenuously on mutual interests, but it quickly faded.
Translation: Su amistad se fundó tenuemente en intereses mutuos, pero rápidamente se desvaneció.
She argued her case tenuously, hoping to persuade the committee with little evidence.
Translation: Ella argumentó su caso tenuemente, esperando persuadir al comité con pocas pruebas.
The student’s claims rested tenuously on a few outdated sources.
Translation: Las afirmaciones del estudiante descansaban tenuemente sobre algunas fuentes desactualizadas.
The word "tenuously" comes from the adjective "tenuous," which originates from the Latin word "tenuus," meaning "thin" or "faint." This etymological background underlines the notion of something being weak or lacking solid support.
Synonyms: - Weakly - Slightly - Fragilely
Antonyms: - Strongly - Firmly - Solidly
In summary, "tenuously" conveys a sense of fragility or lack of certainty and is primarily used in more formal contexts. It can describe various situations where connections, ideas, or arguments lack firmness or strong backing.