fragile
Loading your saved state.
fragile
The quality of objects that break easily or break into pieces if they fall or are handled improperly.
Die alten Weingläser sind sehr zerbrechlich und müssen vorsichtig behandelt werden.
The old wine glasses are very fragile and must be handled carefully.
fragile
In a figurative sense, used for people or conditions that seem weak, sensitive, or not resilient.
Nach der langen Krankheit wirkte sie sehr blass und zerbrechlich.
After the long illness, she looked very pale and fragile.
The prefix 'zer-' means that something breaks or falls apart into pieces. 'Zerbrechlich' (fragile) therefore describes something that can easily 'zer-brechen' (break apart).
Das Paket ist als „zerbrechlich“ markiert, sei also bitte vorsichtig damit.
The package is marked 'zerbrechlich' (fragile), so please be careful with it.
You can tell whether the literal or figurative meaning is intended from the noun. If 'zerbrechlich' (fragile) refers to an object (e.g., glass), it is literal. If it refers to a person or something abstract (e.g., health, happiness), it is meant figuratively.
Diese alten Vasen aus Porzellan sind extrem zerbrechlich.
These old porcelain vases are extremely fragile.
In its literal meaning, 'zerbrechlich' (fragile) often describes materials such as glass, porcelain, or ceramic. It is also used as a warning label on packages.
Die zerbrechliche Ware wurde für den Transport extra gut verpackt.
The fragile goods were packed especially well for transport.
In a figurative sense, 'zerbrechlich' (fragile) is used for people, feelings, or conditions. Typical combinations are 'zerbrechliche Gesundheit' (fragile health), 'ein zerbrechliches Glück' (a fragile happiness), or 'eine zerbrechliche Person' (a fragile person).
Er wirkte nach dem Verlust seines Jobs emotional sehr zerbrechlich.
After losing his job, he seemed emotionally very fragile.
sensitive
Both words can describe objects that are easily damaged. „Empfindlich“ emphasizes that something reacts easily to certain external influences, while „zerbrechlich“ specifically highlights the risk of being damaged or broken. „Empfindlich“ is suitable for sensitive technology, while „zerbrechlich“ is usually used for glass or porcelain.
Das zerbrechliche Glas muss beim Umzug vorsichtig getragen werden.
The fragile glass must be carried carefully during the move.
Die empfindliche Kamera darf nicht nass werden oder starke Stöße bekommen.
The sensitive camera must not get wet or be subjected to strong impacts.
