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Writer's pictureErin West

Business English Vocabulary Challenge: flimsy or sturdy?

Updated: Oct 10

Business English, quiz, learn phrases, adjectives, learn vocabulary, practice, English for professionals, real life business English

Welcome to the Business English Vocabulary Challenge! Today, we’ll learn another common word to describe products.


Today's Challenge:


Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.


This chair feels ____, it might break if you sit in it.


A. sturdy

B. high-grade

C. flimsy

D. solid


 

In Business English, flimsy is used to describe something that is weak (about excuses, arguments, etc.) or easily breakable (about products and things). If a chair feels flimsy, it means it’s not strong or reliable, and it could break under pressure.


That folder was flimsy, it tore after one use.

Their argument was flimsy, and no one believed them.


By contrast, sturdy and solid describe something strong and dependable. For example, a sturdy chair is one that feels strong and durable, and a solid plan is a plan that is well-thought-out and reliable.


The desk is sturdy and will last for years.

They have a solid strategy for next quarter.


 

So, what's the correct answer?


C. flimsy is the correct answer because it describes something weak and easily breakable.



 

Did You Know?


There are several other synonyms for sturdy that you can use to describe something strong or reliable. Here are a few common ones:


DURABLE

lasting a long time (about furniture, machines, or clothing)


The company produces durable equipment that can withstand heavy use.

These shoes are really durable; I've worn them for two years, and they still look new.


ROBUST

strong and able to handle tough conditions (about business strategies, processes, systems)


We implemented a robust security system to protect our data.

Their business model is robust enough to survive any market changes.


RESILIENT

strong enough to recover quickly from difficulties (about people, businesses, or systems)


After the economic downturn, their business proved to be resilient and bounced back quickly.

This material is resilient and can bend without breaking.


 

Quick Quiz


Choose the correct word to complete each sentence:


1.This table is _____, it won't break if you put something heavy on it.


  • flimsy

  • sturdy

  • resilient


2.After the big challenge, she showed how _____ she was.


  • flimsy

  • resilient

  • sturdy


3.The paper was so _____, it ripped the moment I touched it.


  • flimsy

  • robust

  • sturdy


4.We need a _____ plan that can work even in tough situations.


  • flimsy

  • sturdy

  • robust


ANSWER KEY


Now, you can confidently use these words in your business conversations to describe products or situations. Keep learning with our daily challenges, and improve your business vocabulary step by step!



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