Adjective
/keβɾaˈðito/
"Quebradizo" is used to describe something that is easily broken, fragile, or prone to breaking under stress. This word is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, especially in technical discussions, such as materials science, engineering, and construction, as well as in more general conversations about objects and their durability.
The word conveys both a physical and metaphorical meaning; it can refer to materials like glass or ceramic, or it may be used figuratively to describe a person’s emotional state, resilience, or a precarious situation. Its frequency of use tends to be moderate, with specific applications depending on the context.
El cristal es muy quebradizo, ten cuidado al manejarlo.
The glass is very brittle; be careful when handling it.
Su salud se ha vuelto quebradiza por el estrés acumulado.
His health has become fragile due to accumulated stress.
Los materiales quebradizos no son apropiados para esta construcción.
Brittle materials are not suitable for this construction.
While "quebradizo" may not be part of many idiomatic expressions, it can still appear in phrases that describe vulnerability or fragility metaphorically. Below are examples of such expressions:
A veces, la mente es más quebradiza que el cuerpo.
Sometimes, the mind is more fragile than the body.
En momentos de crisis, las emociones pueden ser quebradizas.
In moments of crisis, emotions can be fragile.
En la vida, las relaciones pueden ser quebradizas si no se cuidan.
In life, relationships can be fragile if not nurtured.
Un proyecto mal planificado es como un edificio quebradizo.
A poorly planned project is like a brittle building.
The term "quebradizo" originates from the Spanish verb "quebrar," which means "to break." The suffix "-izo" is often added to adjectives in Spanish to indicate a tendency or susceptibility. Thus, "quebradizo" literally conveys the idea of being prone to breaking.
Synonyms: - Frágil (fragile) - Dócil (malleable, in the context of being easily broken emotionally) - Endeble (weak)
Antonyms: - Resistente (resistant) - Fuerte (strong) - Robusto (robust)
This comprehensive overview provides the essential details regarding the word "quebradizo," including its meanings, uses, and related expressions.