a delicate operation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate operation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a task or procedure that requires careful handling or precision, often due to its complexity or sensitivity. Example: "The surgeon explained that it would be a delicate operation, requiring utmost focus and skill to ensure the best outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

It was a delicate operation.

The Guardian - Sport

But she's running a delicate operation.

The New York Times - Arts

This is a delicate operation, according to O'Meara.

The New Yorker

"Getting the crabs here is a delicate operation," said Mr. Jin.

The New York Times

It will be a delicate operation: but Japan's situation is indeed very delicate.

The Economist

"This is a delicate operation that will take days, not hours," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

In Germany, where workers are represented on company boards and "consensus" is a cardinal social principle, it can be a particularly delicate operation.

The Economist

"It's a very delicate operation," Mr Eibenschutz said.

Independent

"It's a very delicate operation," Mr. Hughes said in jest.

The New York Times - Style

Authorities stemmed the spill, but have warned that the salvage operation could take weeks, as moving the vessel will be "a very delicate" operation that risks sending hundreds of tonnes of oil on to the reef.

The Guardian

"It was a really delicate operation and so much was at stake, particularly as we had never been involved in anything like this before.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex or sensitive undertaking, use "a delicate operation" to emphasize the need for caution, precision, and expertise. This phrase is effective across various fields, from surgery to diplomacy.

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate operation" to describe everyday tasks that don't genuinely require a high degree of care or skill. It's best reserved for situations where the complexity or risk is evident.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate operation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It describes an action or procedure requiring great care and precision. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates this is a standard and accepted usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Science

11%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a delicate operation" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression across various contexts to denote a task that demands precision and careful execution. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread acceptance. Primarily found in News & Media and Science, it maintains a neutral register, signaling complexity and sensitivity. When writing, reserve it for situations genuinely requiring heightened care to avoid overuse. Alternatives such as "a sensitive undertaking" or "a tricky procedure" can provide nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive undertaking

Replaces 'operation' with 'undertaking', emphasizing the planning and execution of a significant project needing care.

a precarious task

Substitutes 'delicate' with 'precarious' to highlight the instability or risk involved in the task.

a tricky procedure

Uses 'tricky' to denote a task requiring cleverness and careful handling to avoid problems.

a complex maneuver

Replaces 'operation' with 'maneuver' to suggest a skillful and calculated movement, often in a strategic context.

a challenging endeavor

Emphasizes the difficulty and effort involved, replacing 'operation' with 'endeavor'.

a fine balancing act

Highlights the need for equilibrium and careful management of opposing forces.

a subtle manipulation

Implies careful and understated handling, sometimes with a nuanced or strategic intent.

a precise intervention

Focuses on the accuracy and exactness required in a specific action or involvement.

a painstaking process

Stresses the thoroughness and attention to detail required over a period of time.

a tactical negotiation

Indicates a strategically planned discussion that requires careful handling to achieve a desired outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "a delicate operation" to describe any task or procedure that requires careful handling and precision, such as "Removing the artifact from the tomb was "a delicate operation".".

What are some alternatives to "a delicate operation"?

Alternatives include "a sensitive undertaking", "a precarious task", or "a tricky procedure", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Use "a delicate operation" when describing a task that demands precision, care, and expertise to avoid potential negative outcomes. It's fitting for surgical procedures, diplomatic negotiations, or handling fragile objects.

What's the difference between "a delicate operation" and "a routine task"?

"A delicate operation" implies complexity and a high risk of failure if not executed properly, whereas "a routine task" suggests simplicity and a well-established procedure with minimal risk.