a delicate proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate proposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a situation or suggestion that is sensitive or requires careful handling. Example: "Proposing a change in leadership can be a delicate proposition, as it may upset the current dynamics within the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

City Hall's landmark status made construction a delicate proposition and something of an archeological dig.

The New York Times

That is a delicate proposition for any pitcher, never mind a weary 41-year-old.

The New York Times - Sports

But that is a delicate proposition for the Red Sox, who trail Seattle by three games.

The New York Times - Sports

Windproof jackets aren't new, but creating one that is streamlined, breathable and drapes well is a delicate proposition.

The New York Times

Balancing nature and modern recreation is a delicate proposition in a park where the number of visitors has more than doubled in the last 20 years.

The New York Times

Holding a cultural event in a war-scarred place with a legacy as complex as Kashmir's is bound to be a delicate proposition.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

There are many precedents for monied individuals uniting to acquire trophy assets -- sports teams, restaurants, racehorses -- but a city magazine with a history of deconstructing and occasionally torturing Manhattan elites is a more delicate proposition.

The New York Times

Texture, as you can see, is a very delicate proposition in these kinds of sausages, and salt is part of it.

BBC

Whereas Olly Riley and Jamie Smith trade on aggression and pubescent laddiness, Willow Prowse is a more delicate proposition, but one whose endgame is basically the same.

Vice

In the Credit Suisse case, for example, regulators from the Federal Reserve and prosecutors worked for months to persuade the Swiss bank and its regulators to release full data, an especially delicate proposition because of Swiss laws that fiercely guard client information, according to the law enforcement officials.

The New York Times

But in a strictly political sense, appeasing the Latino community is a far more delicate proposition for the president-elect.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a delicate proposition" when you want to emphasize the need for careful handling and consideration of potential consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate proposition" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with synonyms like "sensitive issue" or "tricky situation" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate proposition" functions as a noun phrase that describes a situation, task, or plan that needs to be handled with care and sensitivity. Ludwig shows that it commonly appears in contexts where potential negative consequences are a concern.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delicate proposition" is a phrase used to describe a situation or suggestion needing careful consideration. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in news and media. The phrase suggests sensitivity and potential risks that require tactful handling. While frequently used, overuse should be avoided by incorporating synonyms such as "sensitive matter" or "tricky situation". The phrase is suitable for formal and neutral registers, making it useful in various professional and journalistic settings. Examples show this phrase is used in a broad range of situations where thoughtfulness and care are needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive matter

Focuses on the sensitivity aspect, omitting the proposal element.

a tricky situation

Highlights the difficulty and potential problems involved.

a precarious undertaking

Emphasizes the risk and uncertainty associated with the task.

a challenging endeavor

Stresses the difficulty and effort required.

a complex issue

Highlights the multifaceted nature of the situation.

a touchy subject

Underscores the potential for causing offense or disagreement.

a difficult task

Focuses on the arduous nature of the work.

a fraught negotiation

Highlights the stress and tension involved in the bargaining process.

a taxing ordeal

Emphasizes the burdensome and exhausting nature of the experience.

a problematic scheme

Focuses on the potential problems and flaws in the plan.

FAQs

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

You can use "a delicate proposition" to describe a situation or suggestion that requires careful handling. For example, "Negotiating a peace treaty is "a delicate proposition".".

What can I say instead of "a delicate proposition"?

You can use alternatives like "a sensitive matter", "a tricky situation", or "a challenging endeavor" depending on the context.

Is "a delicate proposition" formal or informal?

The phrase ""a delicate proposition"" is generally considered neutral to formal, suitable for use in news, business, and academic contexts.

What makes something "a delicate proposition"?

A situation becomes ""a delicate proposition"" when it requires tact, careful planning, and awareness of potential risks or sensitivities to avoid negative outcomes.