# flail vs frail

> English confusable word pair

## The two words

### flail
*noun · IPA /fleɪl/ · frequency rank #49,921*
A tool used for threshing, consisting of a long handle (handstock) with a shorter stick (swipple or swingle) attached with a short piece of chain, thong or similar material.

### frail
*adjective · IPA /fɹeɪl/ · frequency rank #20,119*
Easily broken physically; not firm or durable; liable to fail and perish.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/vs/flail-vs-frail