a delicate discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a conversation that involves sensitive or complex topics that require careful handling. Example: "We need to have a delicate discussion about the changes in our team structure and how it may affect everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

For Democratic members of the Assembly, it was bagels and lox and a delicate discussion about ending the income tax surcharge on wealthy New Yorkers.

The New York Times

Mr. Booker's challenge has exposed a delicate discussion that senators and the protective cordon of aides around them rarely conduct in public: at what point does experience become more of a liability than an asset?

The New York Times

Again, this is a teaching assistant being brought to heel by the university administration for facilitating a (delicate) discussion in a seminar.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

PARENTS have learned to expect, and often dread, two sex talks with their children: the early lesson about the "birds and the bees" and the more delicate discussion of how to navigate a healthy sexual life as a young adult.

The New York Times

At the bedside, the therapeutic benefit of the clinical use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in cancer is still a delicate controversial discussion point.

Histochemistry and Cell Biology

At Congress, she trained servers to handle the delicate discussion of the wine list.

The New York Times - Food

Because they had this delicate discussion after Judaism's yearlong mourning period had passed, Ms. Knox felt free to suggest that he meet Dr. Melissa Eve Dubroff, a friend of a friend.

The New York Times - Style

It is a decision the government has been reluctant to take, and it was a result of long and delicate discussions with Mrs. Aung San Suu Kyi.

The New York Times

"I'll start a dialogue with these kids," said the officer, who regularly moves more delicate discussions of military personnel and command issues to a private e-mail address.

The New York Times

On Tuesday, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Shuja Pasha, the ISI's chief, told White House and State Department officials that the agency had purged itself of "rogue elements," said a senior administration official, who spoke anonymously because he was describing delicate discussions.

The New York Times

The other day, he said in a telephone interview from Florida that deals were in the works, plans being made, delicate discussions taking place.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a delicate discussion" when you want to emphasize the need for tact, sensitivity, and careful handling of a topic.

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate discussion" as a generic placeholder for any challenging conversation. Choose more precise language to reflect the specific nature of the sensitivity involved. Consider if "a sensitive conversation" or "a difficult talk" might be more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate discussion" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "delicate" modifies the noun "discussion". As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe a conversation requiring careful handling due to its sensitivity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delicate discussion" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a conversation requiring careful handling. While Ludwig AI affirms its validity, it's important to consider the specific context and choose language that accurately reflects the nuances of the situation. Alternatives like "a sensitive conversation" or "a difficult talk" may be more appropriate in some cases. This phrase is most commonly found in news and media sources, highlighting its use in reporting on sensitive topics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive conversation

Replaces "delicate" with "sensitive", emphasizing the emotional aspect of the discussion.

a difficult talk

Focuses on the challenging nature of the conversation.

a diplomatic conversation

Highlights the importance of maintaining good relations and avoiding conflict during the discussion.

a confidential exchange

Emphasizes the importance of secrecy and discretion in the communication.

a nuanced exchange

Emphasizes the subtle and complex nature of the communication.

a fraught dialogue

Emphasizes the tension and potential for conflict in the exchange.

a careful negotiation

Shifts the focus to the negotiation aspect, highlighting the need for tact and strategy.

a complex debate

Highlights the intricate nature of the points being discussed.

a touchy subject

Replaces the entire phrase with a more concise idiom indicating a sensitive matter.

a private meeting

Shifts focus on the fact that it has to be private and discreet.

FAQs

What does "a delicate discussion" mean?

The phrase "a delicate discussion" refers to a conversation about a sensitive, complex, or potentially controversial topic that requires careful and tactful handling to avoid causing offense or conflict.

What can I say instead of "a delicate discussion"?

You can use alternatives like "a sensitive conversation", "a difficult talk", or "a nuanced exchange" depending on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is "a delicate discussion" formal or informal?

"A delicate discussion" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it's generally more common in neutral or formal settings due to its slightly more sophisticated tone compared to more casual alternatives.

How do I start "a delicate discussion"?

Start by creating a safe and respectful environment. Use neutral language, acknowledge different perspectives, and emphasize your intention to understand and find common ground. Avoid accusatory or judgmental language.