brittle
Adjective
Easy difficulty
What does “brittle” mean?
adjective.hard but liable to break or shatter easily.
SAT Usage
The term often appears in contexts related to materials science, environmental studies, or emotional states. It emphasizes fragility and vulnerability, suggesting that something may seem strong yet is easily compromised, which distinguishes it from similar terms like "fragile," which carries a more general connotation of delicacy without the implication of initial strength.
Common Confusions
Brittle implies hardiness that is prone to breakage, while fragile usually suggests a general delicacy without the implication of initial strength.
Example Sentences
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The old document had become brittle and crumbled at the edges.
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As a child, my favorite candy was peanut brittle.
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A diamond is hard but brittle.
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What a brittle personality! A little misunderstanding and he's an emotional wreck.