Tenuously

Adverb

Definition: In a way that is weak or fragile.

Synonyms: Weakly, Delicately

Antonyms: Strongly, Firmly

Examples:

The rope was tenuously tied around the tree branch.
She held on tenuously to the edge of the cliff.

Mnemonics:

Think of "tenuous" as related to "thin" or "fragile."

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "tenuously" derives from the adjective "tenuous," which comes from Latin "tenuis" meaning "thin" or "slender."

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the 17th century, maintaining its meaning of fragility or weakness.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Hold on tenuously"

Explanation:

Referring to holding on with a weak or uncertain grip or grasp.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "tenuously" with "tenaciously."

Explanation:

While the words sound similar, they have opposite meanings. "Tenuously" means weak or fragile, while "tenaciously" means holding firmly or stubbornly.