a delicate juncture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate juncture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sensitive or critical point in a situation or process where careful consideration is needed. Example: "The negotiations reached a delicate juncture, requiring both parties to tread carefully to avoid conflict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This is a delicate juncture for their pitching staff.

The New York Times - Sports

And the German decision to go it alone reinforced the negative impression of a divided Europe at a delicate juncture.

The New York Times

Ferry's concern over becoming a lame-duck leader at such a delicate juncture might have been warranted if it were not for Adelphi's sense of a mission unaccomplished.

The New York Times - Sports

President Obama's relations with Moscow are at a delicate juncture; he needs Russian help in pressing Iran to give up its nuclear program even as he has been quarreling with Mr. Putin over the conflict in Syria and missile defense.

The New York Times

The publication of the comments, bound to embarrass all three allies, came at a delicate juncture hours before the imminent release of a significant report on Iran by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The New York Times

This shift comes at a delicate juncture: weak economies, weak governments in several countries, political conflict in Venezuela and Bolivia, and Colombia's intensifying wars have all aroused fears about the Andean region's stability.A second worry concerns the figures themselves.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

At a delicate time for the world economy, and an equally delicate juncture for regional affairs, the choices that the immensely rich kingdom makes are especially relevant.

The Economist

His ABC interview came at an especially delicate juncture in the debate over the use of torture.

The New York Times

When Donald Trump had a phone conversation with Vladimir Putin on the morning of March 20th, the two were at an excruciatingly delicate juncture.

The New Yorker

Ministers have hinted that they fear courting unpopularity at an already delicate juncture.It might be possible to steer through pension reforms and take on the vested interests opposed to liberalisation and privatisation if it were done in the name of national belt-tightening.

The Economist

"At this delicate juncture, a very public spat with the Obama administration does no one good, least of all Israel," the weekly newspaper's editors wrote.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a delicate juncture", ensure the context clearly indicates why the situation is sensitive or critical. Provide enough information for the reader to understand the potential consequences or challenges involved.

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate juncture" in overly casual or trivial situations. This phrase carries a sense of importance and potential risk, so it's best reserved for scenarios where careful consideration is genuinely needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate juncture" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig examples show it describing a critical state requiring careful consideration.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delicate juncture" is a noun phrase used to describe a sensitive or critical point in time that requires careful handling. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "a critical moment" or "a sensitive point" exist, "a delicate juncture" specifically emphasizes the potential for disruption or adverse consequences. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly establishes the reasons for the situation's sensitivity and the potential risks involved, avoiding overuse in trivial scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical moment

Emphasizes the importance and potential consequences of the situation.

a sensitive point

Highlights the need for careful handling and awareness.

a precarious stage

Stresses the instability and potential for adverse outcomes.

a crucial phase

Focuses on the importance of the current stage for future success.

a turning point

Indicates a moment of significant change or decision.

a vulnerable time

Highlights the susceptibility to negative influences or events.

a pivotal period

Emphasizes the significance and potential impact of the timeframe.

a tricky situation

Focuses on the difficulty and complexity of the circumstances.

a challenging period

Highlights the difficulties and demands of the current timeframe.

a sensitive area

Highlights the vulnerability and risks involved.

FAQs

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

You can use "a delicate juncture" to describe a point in time or a situation that requires careful handling due to its sensitivity or potential for negative consequences. For example, "The peace talks are at "a delicate juncture", and any misstep could lead to renewed conflict."

What are some alternatives to "a delicate juncture"?

Alternatives to "a delicate juncture" include "a critical moment", "a sensitive point", or "a precarious stage", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "a delicate juncture"?

While "a delicate juncture" is grammatically correct, it is most appropriate in situations where there is a genuine risk or sensitivity involved. Avoid using it in trivial or unimportant contexts.

What makes "a delicate juncture" different from "a critical point"?

"A delicate juncture" implies a need for careful handling due to potential fragility, while "a critical point" simply emphasizes the importance of the moment. "A delicate juncture" suggests the situation could easily be disrupted, whereas "a critical point" focuses on the significance of the outcome.