a delicate issue for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate issue for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic that requires sensitivity or careful handling, often due to its complexity or potential for conflict. Example: "The decision to change the policy is a delicate issue for the management team, as it may affect employee morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Moves toward reconciliation are a delicate issue for both sides.

The New York Times

Embryo research has been a delicate issue for Mr. Bush.

The New York Times

Islam is a delicate issue for the church, and Benedict struggled in his relationship with Muslims.

The New York Times

Washington knows that Ukraine has always been a delicate issue for Moscow.

The Guardian - Opinion

Drug costs are "a delicate issue for the N.A.M., because the pharmaceutical manufacturers are members," Mr. Maher said.

The New York Times

The BBC is a delicate issue for Britons, since most who watch television pay a license fee that represents about 72 percent of the corporation's income.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Matias Spektor, a Brazilian scholar at the Council on Foreign Relations, said that nuclear nonproliferation was a particularly delicate issue for Brazil because, in the face of American opposition in the 1970s, it established a secret effort that developed the capacity to enrich uranium.

The New York Times

Supporting an expanded military campaign against the Islamic State, the militant group also known as ISIS or ISIL, is a politically delicate issue for vulnerable Democrats, as buttressing further action risks alienating the kinds of voters who soured on the Iraq War.

Huffington Post

But "more Europe" would mean a considerable loss of French sovereignty over its national budget and the French financial system, an extraordinarily delicate issue for Mr. Hollande and his Socialist Party, which split badly on a similar issue in 2005.

The New York Times

It represents an especially delicate issue for Israel, which has said that it would act militarily, if necessary, to stop Iran from building a nuclear weapon.

The New York Times

Wary of the usual courtroom adversary techniques for such a delicate issue, Judge Susan J. Dlott of United States District Court had called time out in the suit in March, only weeks before the underlying issues exploded in the streets as blacks protested the police and a city curfew was imposed to end bouts of vandalism.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a delicate issue for", ensure that the context clearly indicates why the issue is sensitive. Provide enough background information so the reader understands the potential challenges or risks involved.

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate issue for" when the matter is simply complex or requires effort, but isn't truly sensitive. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing seem melodramatic. Use it only when there's a genuine risk of causing offense, conflict, or harm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate issue for" functions as a modifier within a sentence, often introducing a topic or situation that needs careful handling or consideration. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly used to frame discussions around sensitive subjects.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delicate issue for" is a phrase used to denote a topic or situation requiring careful and tactful handling. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and widespread presence, particularly in news and media contexts. The phrase signals potential sensitivity, conflict, or complexity, urging caution and thoughtful consideration. While grammatically correct and commonly used, it's important to ensure its appropriateness by providing sufficient context and avoiding overuse. Alternatives such as "a sensitive matter for" or "a tricky situation for" may be more fitting depending on the specific nuance intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive matter for

Focuses on the sensitivity of the topic rather than its potential for causing problems.

a tricky situation for

Highlights the challenging nature of the situation, suggesting a need for careful navigation.

a challenging problem for

Emphasizes the difficulty in finding a solution.

a precarious position for

Indicates a situation that is unstable or dangerous.

a contentious topic for

Highlights the likelihood of disagreement or dispute.

a fraught subject for

Suggests a topic filled with tension and anxiety.

a thorny question for

Emphasizes the complexity and difficulty in resolving the issue.

a sensitive area for

Highlights the potential for causing offense or emotional distress.

a difficult subject for

Focuses on the challenges in discussing or addressing the subject.

a sensitive point for

Indicates a specific aspect that requires careful consideration.

FAQs

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

You can use "a delicate issue for" to describe a topic or situation that needs to be handled with care and sensitivity. For example, "The ongoing negotiations are a delicate issue for both parties involved".

What are some alternatives to saying "a delicate issue for"?

Alternatives include "a sensitive matter for", "a tricky situation for", or "a challenging problem for", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What makes something "a delicate issue for" someone?

An issue might be considered "a delicate issue for" someone if it involves sensitive topics, potential conflicts, or requires careful handling to avoid negative consequences. It often implies a need for tact and diplomacy.

Is it always appropriate to describe something as "a delicate issue for" someone?

No, it's not always appropriate. Use the phrase when there is a genuine reason to believe that the issue requires sensitivity and careful management. Avoid using it for routine or trivial matters.