What is a synonym for fragile?

Appeared in: SGPGI Nursing Officer-2024

Explanation

The word 'fragile' describes something that is easily broken, shattered, or damaged.
The word 'delicate' shares this meaning, referring to something that is fine in texture or structure and requires careful handling to avoid damage.
Therefore, 'delicate' is the most accurate synonym for 'fragile' among the given options.

Option B: This is a verb meaning to conclude or infer something through logical reasoning. It is unrelated to the physical property of being easily broken.
Option C: This is an antonym of 'fragile'. It describes something that is solid, firm, and resistant to damage.
Option D: This word means lacking sharpness, brightness, or interest. It does not relate to the physical strength or weakness of an object.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Synonym Identification (English Vocabulary) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In clinical documentation, using precise language is crucial. Describing a patient's skin as 'fragile' or 'delicate' immediately communicates to the healthcare team that the patient is at high risk for skin tears, bruising, or pressure injuries.
This description guides nursing interventions, such as using gentle handling techniques, applying skin protectants, and using specialized dressings to prevent injury.
The term 'frail' (related to fragile) is a key clinical concept in geriatrics, describing a state of increased vulnerability to stressors due to declines in multiple physiological systems.

How to Approach the Question

Step 1: Understand the core meaning of the word in the question stem. 'Fragile' means easily broken or damaged.
Step 2: Analyze each option to determine its meaning.
Step 3: Compare the meaning of each option to the meaning of 'fragile'.
Step 4: Identify the option with the most similar meaning (the synonym). 'Delicate' also means easily damaged.
Step 5: Eliminate the options with unrelated meanings ('Deduce', 'Dull') and the option with the opposite meaning ('Hard').

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q3Zt2TzOUZvqMcKt1ata1L

E6 Medicine Macleod Clinical Examination 15e p. 379-381

Practise the full SGPGI Nursing Officer-2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.