FLIMSY Synonyms: 70 Similar and Opposite Words

flimsy

adjective

ˈflim-zē

Definition of flimsy

as in unsubstantial

being of a material lacking in sturdiness or substance a flimsy scarf that was more for decoration than for warmth

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in unlikely

not likely to be true or to occur "The check is in the mail" is a pretty flimsy and tired excuse

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of flimsy Luckily for everyone involved, the barriers were the flimsy plastic kind; otherwise, this might’ve ended up being fodder for the World Bollard Association. — Frank Landymore, Futurism, 19 Aug. 2026 However, her recent falling out with Lively has left that title feeling very flimsy. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 18 Aug. 2026 Not only will the strappy upper keep your feet cool under the hot Mediterranean sun, but the plush memory foam insole provides more cushioned support and durability than flimsy flip-flops. — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 17 Aug. 2026 That can lead to structural problems, from drawer fronts pulling off to flimsy drawer bottoms sagging or falling out under the weight of their contents. — Rachel Silva, Martha Stewart, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flimsy

Recent Examples of Synonyms for flimsy

Adjective

Roadmaps are frequently high-level and unsubstantial.

— Peter Bendor-Samuel, Forbes.com, 19 June 2026
This can alter the amount and types of ACE-inhibiting peptides created during fermentation2—and possibly account for kombucha's unsubstantial effect on blood pressure.

— MD Published, Verywell Health, 27 Dec. 2025

Definition of unsubstantial

Adjective

The rationale being that Frank Lampard got his tactics spot on at the Etihad and on another day – a day when Coventry were more decisive in front of goal – their head coach would have been celebrating an unlikely result.

— Stuart James, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
Chris Douglas, a professor of economics at the University of Michigan-Flint, called it unlikely that stick prices will go up 50% across the board, noting Canada's modest market share, but wonders what will happen if demand increases.

— ABC News, ABC News, 7 Sep. 2026

Definition of unlikely

Adjective

But too few of those ideas yield satisfying conclusions, resulting in a drama that becomes treacly and insubstantial, reaching for a profundity that remains elusive.

— David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 16 May 2026
The wall was as insubstantial as a set on a film studio’s back lot.

— Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026

Definition of insubstantial

Adjective

Indonesia’s blackouts in mid-2026, in part triggered by the events in the Middle East, demonstrated how fragile the region’s energy security is.

— Brian Wong, Fortune, 6 Sep. 2026
And ultimately, asked to prove themselves all over again to keep their often-fragile NFL dreams alive.

— Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 6 Sep. 2026

Definition of fragile

Adjective

The gossamer thread holding the sacred feminine maelstrom together?

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026
As with anything related to Meghan and Harry, even the most gossamer threads of gossip quickly ignited, and news of Meghan’s mysterious new role spread across multiple continents.

— K.J. Yossman, Variety, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of gossamer

Adjective

Most of the time, senators exercising this role must rely on gauzy assurances and strained analogies to the candidate’s performance in previous positions.

— Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 7 Aug. 2026
The late-morning sun peeked through a gauzy veil of fog, bright laughter echoing over the giddy whisper of tulle as the brides posed for pictures outside the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

— Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026

Definition of gauzy

Adjective

Beyond its sheer size and resort-level amenities, the estate’s value lies in the kind of construction and materials that are difficult to replicate at today’s costs.

— David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 5 Sep. 2026
The baby pink style was made of a sheer, breezy pink fabric and featured crystallized spaghetti straps that gave way to frindgy crystalized trim that decorated the hem.

— Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of sheer

Adjective

The gold complemented her ethereal lilac chiffon McQueen dress, featuring a sweetheart strapless neckline and flowing layers of delicate fabric.

— Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 10 Sep. 2026
The answers range from good communication and baseball IQ to the ability to navigate the delicate balance of personalities in the clubhouse.

— Andy McCullough, New York Times, 10 Sep. 2026

Definition of delicate

Browse Nearby Words

flimsiness

flimsy

flinch

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“Flimsy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flimsy. Accessed 13 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of flimsy

adjective

Example Sentences

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