fadenscheinig

The German word "fadenscheinig" is an adjective meaning "thin," "flimsy," or "unconvincing"—often used figuratively to describe arguments, excuses, or explanations that lack credibility.

It is made up of:

• Faden: thread
• Scheinig: related to "Schein" meaning "appearance" or "shine" (here conveying a quality or condition)

So "fadenscheinig" literally suggests something like "thread-like" or "threadbare."

Similar words:

• unglaubwürdig (unbelievable, not credible)
• zweifelhaft (doubtful)
• wackelig (shaky)
• lückenhaft (incomplete, with gaps)

Difference:

• "Fadenscheinig" implies weakness or lack of substance, often emphasizing the obvious fragility or dryness of an argument or excuse.
• "Unglaubwürdig" is more direct, focusing on lack of trustworthiness.
• "Zweifelhaft" indicates uncertainty or doubt but not necessarily weakness.
• "Wackelig" is more physical or general fragility/shakiness.
• "Lückenhaft" focuses on incompleteness rather than credibility.

"Fadenscheinig" is more specific to weak or unconvincing reasoning or explanations.