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Question

Select the denotation of the highlighted word 'fragile'.

The fragile economy needs some thrust from supporting partners.

The correct answer is

Frail

Understanding the Denotation of 'Fragile'

The question asks for the denotation (the literal meaning) of the word 'fragile' as used in the sentence: "The fragile economy needs some thrust from supporting partners."

In this sentence, 'fragile' describes the state of the economy. An economy described as 'fragile' is likely weak, unstable, or easily harmed. It suggests that the economy is not strong enough to withstand difficulties without help.

Analyzing the Options for 'Fragile'

Let's look at the given options and compare their meanings to the word 'fragile' in the context of the sentence:

  • Robust: This word means strong, healthy, and able to withstand difficult conditions. This is the opposite of what 'fragile' means in the sentence.
  • Strong: Similar to robust, strong means having power or force; able to withstand pressure or damage. This is also the opposite of 'fragile'.
  • Frail: This word means weak and delicate. It describes something that is easily broken or damaged. This meaning aligns well with the idea of a 'fragile economy' that needs support to avoid collapse or difficulty.
  • Trail: This word typically refers to a path or track. It has no relation to the meaning of 'fragile'.

Identifying the Correct Denotation

Based on the analysis, the word 'frail' is the closest in meaning to 'fragile'. Both words describe something that is weak and easily affected or broken.

Therefore, the denotation of 'fragile' in the context of the sentence is 'frail'.

Meaning Comparison
Word Meaning Relation to 'Fragile'
Fragile Easily broken or damaged; weak or unstable. (Target word)
Robust Strong, healthy, vigorous. Opposite
Strong Having power or force; able to withstand pressure. Opposite
Frail Weak and delicate; easily broken or damaged. Synonym
Trail A path or track. Unrelated

Revision Table: Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary Review
Word Part of Speech Definition
Fragile Adjective (1) Easily broken or damaged. (2) Delicate, not strong.
Denotation Noun The literal or primary meaning of a word, in contrast to the feelings or ideas that the word suggests.
Frail Adjective (1) (of a person) Weak and delicate. (2) Easily broken or damaged. (3) Susceptible to the exertion of an unhealthy or undesirable influence.
Economy Noun The state of a country or region in terms of the production and consumption of goods and services and the supply of money.

Additional Information: Synonyms and Antonyms of Fragile

Understanding synonyms and antonyms helps build vocabulary and comprehension. For the word 'fragile':

  • Synonyms: brittle, delicate, weak, flimsy, breakable, frail, vulnerable.
  • Antonyms: strong, robust, sturdy, tough, durable, resilient.

In the context of an economy, 'fragile' implies vulnerability and a lack of resilience, which aligns well with the definition of 'frail'.

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