a delicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is fragile, sensitive, or requires careful handling. Example: "She handled the delicate vase with great care to avoid breaking it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's a delicate balance".

The New York Times

It's a delicate process.

The New Yorker

A delicate and difficult interview.

The New Yorker

I keep a delicate distance".

The New York Times

It is a delicate cast.

The New Yorker

But it's a delicate thing".

The New York Times - Arts

It's a delicate balance, however.

The New Yorker

Theirs is a delicate task.

The Economist

That is a delicate balance.

The Economist

"It takes a delicate approach".

The New York Times

He is a delicate instrument.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a delicate" to describe a situation, consider the specific nuance you want to convey: is it fragility, sensitivity, or the need for careful handling? Choose synonyms like "a fragile" or "a sensitive" when more precision is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate" as a generic descriptor. Instead, provide context to clarify what makes something delicate. For instance, instead of saying "It's a delicate matter", specify "It's a delicate matter due to the risk of misinterpretation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It serves to describe the quality of something as fragile, sensitive, or requiring careful handling. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples of usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a delicate" is a versatile adjective phrase used to describe something fragile, sensitive, or requiring careful handling. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it's important to consider the specific nuance you want to convey and choose synonyms when more precision is needed. Remember to provide context to clarify what makes something delicate and avoid overusing the phrase without clear meaning. The phrase maintains a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for a wide range of writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fragile

Emphasizes physical or emotional vulnerability; more focused on easiness to be damaged.

a sensitive

Highlights responsiveness and the need for careful handling due to potential offense or harm.

a subtle

Suggests fineness or elusiveness, often implying that something is not immediately obvious.

a precarious

Indicates instability or uncertainty, highlighting the risk of failure or collapse.

a tricky

Focuses on the challenging or problematic nature of a situation, often requiring skill and care to navigate.

a fine

Suggests something of high quality or precision, often requiring skill and care to produce or appreciate.

a critical

Emphasizes the importance or decisiveness of something, often requiring careful consideration and judgment.

a complex

Highlights intricacy and the need for careful understanding due to multiple interconnected parts.

an intricate

Focuses on detailed and elaborate design, often requiring skill and care to create or appreciate.

a demanding

Highlights the high requirements or expectations of something, often requiring significant effort and skill.

FAQs

How can I use "a delicate" in a sentence?

You can use "a delicate" to describe something fragile, sensitive, or requiring careful handling. For example: "The antique teacup is "a delicate" item" or "Negotiating peace is "a delicate" process".

What's the difference between "a delicate" and "a fragile"?

While both suggest vulnerability, "a delicate" implies a need for careful handling, while "a fragile" emphasizes the ease with which something can be broken. "A fragile" vase is easily shattered, while "a delicate" negotiation requires tact and skill.

What can I say instead of "a delicate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a sensitive", "a subtle", or "a precarious" to convey different nuances of fragility or sensitivity.

Is it always appropriate to use "a delicate" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the specific context. In highly formal or technical writing, more precise terms might be preferred. For instance, instead of saying "a delicate balance", you might say "a carefully maintained equilibrium".