a delicate disposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate disposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is sensitive or easily affected by their emotions or surroundings. Example: "She has a delicate disposition, often feeling overwhelmed in crowded places."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

If you are unfamiliar with Joan's work and of a delicate disposition, please look away now.

Independent

Anyone of a delicate disposition should probably look away now, and avoid London's South Bank in June at all costs.

The Guardian - Music

Readers of a delicate disposition, please look away now – there is news of a Sooty-themed sex scandal.

The Guardian - Opinion

7.47am: Those of a delicate disposition should probably avoid this article from Reuters star blogger Felix Salmon.

The Guardian - Business

The Army Rumour Service, which calls itself "the British Army's busiest and best online community", or Arrse for short, is not somewhere for civilians of a delicate disposition.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

And while buckets of blood and barely censored sex scenes may shock those of a more delicate disposition – indeed his account was temporarily suspended in 2014 – Abraham's work can also leave you wondering where style ends and the ridicule of the fashion industry begins.

Independent

As for chickpeas and pigeon peas, Albala argues that "their sweet delicate disposition and alluringly round form have set them apart as taxonomically above beans".

The New York Times - Books

It was a place where customers who suffered from delicate dispositions and "weak chests" would literally be "restored".

The New York Times - Books

It's a trip and should not be viewed by young children or those with delicate dispositions.

Vice

More delicate dispositions tend to focus on the view from the tour bus window, or, in the case of Arctic Monkeys, on absurdly attired schmoozers backstage in Japan (cf 2007's "Brianstorm").

The Guardian - Music

But it is also a fraction of what the industry turns over annually and the gaps in their investment portfolios would have been rapidly filled by speculators with a less delicate moral disposition.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more direct synonyms like "sensitive" or "easily offended" if the context doesn't require a formal tone or if you want to avoid euphemisms.

Common error

Avoid equating "a delicate disposition" with a lack of strength or intelligence. Sensitivity is a trait that exists independently of a person's other qualities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate disposition" functions as a descriptive attribute, often used to characterize an individual's emotional or mental constitution. Ludwig examples show it describes someone who is sensitive and needs careful handling.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delicate disposition" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe someone who is easily affected by their emotions or surroundings. Ludwig AI indicates it is most frequently found in news and media contexts. While not an extremely common phrase, it is appropriate for use in formal or descriptive writing when conveying a sense of sensitivity and vulnerability. When using the phrase, it is important to be mindful of the potential for misinterpreting delicacy as weakness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive nature

Focuses on inherent sensitivity rather than a general disposition.

a fragile temperament

Emphasizes the easiness with which someone's mood can be affected.

easily offended

Highlights the susceptibility to taking offense.

thin-skinned

Informal term for being sensitive to criticism.

sensitive soul

Implies a deep emotional capacity and vulnerability.

tender sensibilities

Emphasizes refined and easily affected feelings.

a susceptible nature

Focuses on being easily influenced or affected.

vulnerable character

Highlights a lack of protection from emotional harm.

delicate constitution

Refers more to physical or mental weakness.

high-strung personality

Suggests a nervous and easily agitated character.

FAQs

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

You might say, "She has "a delicate disposition", and is easily moved by sad stories" or "Approach him with care, as he has "a delicate disposition".

What are some alternatives to "a delicate disposition"?

Alternatives include "sensitive nature", "fragile temperament", or "easily offended", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a delicate disposition" a formal or informal phrase?

"A delicate disposition" is considered a relatively formal phrase. In more casual contexts, using "sensitive" or "thin-skinned" might be more appropriate.

What does it mean to say someone has "a delicate disposition"?

It means that the person is easily affected by their emotions or surroundings, and may be more prone to being upset or offended. They require a gentle and considerate approach.