a delicate negotiation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate negotiation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a negotiation that requires careful handling due to its sensitive nature or the parties involved. Example: "The two countries engaged in a delicate negotiation to resolve their longstanding territorial disputes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

There followed a delicate negotiation based on the principal of not paying a ransom.

The Guardian

Then a delicate negotiation began with the Newsnight editor and his lawyers at David Price over how to proceed.

The Guardian

WASHINGTON, June 3 — Mitt Romney owes his nearly $350 million fortune and his political career to a delicate negotiation with his boss in the summer of 1983.

The New York Times

But Ms. O'Neill would not elaborate, beyond saying, "We are in the very early stages of a delicate negotiation process with the F.D.A".

The New York Times

"It's hard for us to learn how to dance together again," said a senior administration official, who like others was not authorized to speak on the record in the middle of a delicate negotiation.

The New York Times

And yet, as Ms. Hudes described it, each play is a delicate negotiation between fact and fiction, between the experiences of her relatives and the dramatic necessity of the play.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Specifically, a bipartisan congressional panel convened on Wednesday to hash out an immigration deal – a "complex, delicate" negotiation met with a Trump tweet urging them to build a wall.

The Guardian

Getting back on track towards a "Vietnamese solution" will be a complex and delicate negotiation.

The Economist

This is a delicate business negotiation, the advisers warned, and delicate business negotiations should not take place on your opponent's home turf.

Los Angeles Times

Setting the date for our group is a matter of high-level, delicate negotiation.

The New York Times - Travel

Hani was an important player in the delicate negotiation process that had progressed in fits-and-starts since Mandela's release in 1990, and – at the time of Hani's death – was on the verge of a significant breakthrough.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a delicate negotiation", consider the specific context and choose language that accurately reflects the nature of the discussions, such as whether it's sensitive, complex, or difficult.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the delicacy of a negotiation if the situation doesn't warrant it. Using overly dramatic language can undermine your credibility and make the situation seem more precarious than it actually is.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate negotiation" functions as a noun phrase, with "delicate" modifying the noun "negotiation". It describes the nature or quality of the negotiation. Ludwig confirms this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a delicate negotiation" describes a negotiation that requires careful handling due to its sensitive nature or the parties involved. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While not extremely common, it appears frequently in news and media, academia, and science. When using this phrase, consider the specific context to ensure that it accurately reflects the complexities of the situation and avoid overstating its delicacy. Related phrases include "a sensitive negotiation", "a tricky negotiation" and "a complex negotiation", each with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive negotiation

Emphasizes the potential for emotional or political reactions.

a tricky negotiation

Highlights the presence of hidden difficulties or complexities.

a complex negotiation

Focuses on the multifaceted and intricate nature of the discussions.

a difficult negotiation

Stresses the challenges and obstacles involved in reaching an agreement.

a fraught negotiation

Implies heightened tension and potential for conflict.

a nuanced discussion

Highlights the subtleties and fine points that must be considered.

a painstaking deliberation

Emphasizes the thoroughness and meticulousness required.

a tactful bargaining

Underscores the need for diplomacy and sensitivity.

a diplomatic exchange

Stresses the importance of maintaining positive relationships between parties.

a careful compromise

Highlights the need for both sides to make concessions while avoiding significant losses.

FAQs

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

You can use "a delicate negotiation" to describe a situation requiring careful handling. For example, "The hostage situation required "a delicate negotiation" to ensure everyone's safety."

What are some alternatives to "a delicate negotiation"?

Alternatives include "a sensitive negotiation", "a tricky negotiation", or "a complex negotiation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a delicate negotiation"?

Use "a delicate negotiation" when the situation requires careful and tactful handling due to potential sensitivities or risks. It's appropriate in contexts where missteps could lead to negative consequences.

What makes a negotiation "delicate"?

A negotiation can be considered "delicate" if it involves sensitive issues, high stakes, or parties with conflicting interests. The phrase implies that careful handling and diplomacy are essential for a successful outcome.