forum What's the difference between the fragile and delicate body types?

Started March 12, 2019 by @NobleWolf

tune

Is there a difference?

I'd define "fragile" as kind of more literally fragile, like an older person
"Delicate", for me, is more about like being graceful in movement and slim in body. Long-lashed eyes and beautiful features. Ethereal. Like a ballerina, kind of. But here are definitions:

The dictionary definition for "fragile" is:
(of a person) not strong or sturdy; delicate and vulnerable.

The dictionary definition for "delicate" is: (several of these)
(of a person, animal, or plant) susceptible to illness or adverse conditions.
(of a person or an action) tactful and considerate.

So, in conclusion,
Delicate is used mostly about temperament, how people react to non-optimal conditions. About the body type, I'd imagine what I've said.
Fragile is mostly about physical health, how easily people will hurt themselves. Body type, kind of thin, obedient/demure if healthy and young.

However, you can always interpret this your own way. Just if you describe your character as 'fragile', I think people will tend to imagine a more physically fragile person than if you use 'delicate'. (Other people are welcome to chime in on their opinions.)

^^^ I agree with that.
Delicate is a word one might use to describe the wings of a butterfly, the legs of a bird, or the sensitive skin of a baby. It definitely has more conventionally “beautiful” connotation. If you describe someone as delicate, the assumption likely is they move gracefully, and they’re also typically going to be pictured as thin.
Fragile basically means breakable, and has more negative connotation, being connected to aging and possibly poor health. I’d say that word is more interchangeable with the word “frail” in this context.

I see. Thanks guys.