a delicate skill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate skill" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a skill that requires careful handling, precision, or sensitivity, often in contexts like art, negotiation, or communication. Example: "Mastering the art of negotiation is a delicate skill that can greatly influence the outcome of any deal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a delicate skill, and authors like Ruth Rendell have made it into something of an art form.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a specialized, delicate skill, more common among British than American stars, and part of the highly satisfying spectator sport of watching expert performers juggle jeweled words.

The New York Times

He weaves the essences of private life into the tapestry of history with deliberate and delicate skill; he has created a panorama of breathtaking emotional force, a masterpiece of pacing, of dedicated storytelling, with characters whose lives are etched with extraordinary, vivid detail.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Kasprzak is one of 10 dancers in "Revolution," a show that improbably combines the delicate skill of tap-dancing with the raucous sound of live rock.

The New York Times - Arts

Sneery types, then and now, called it Laura Ashley cinema, but that's to demean its delicate skill.

The Guardian - Film

Today that sadomasochistic terrain has been so well tilled that Strindberg's symbol-freighted psychodrama can register as campy melodrama unless it's performed with brute conviction and delicate skill.

The New York Times

Her camera gently forces us into intimacy with the pain of other ordinary people and makes it our own, while we, paradoxically, admire the delicate skill with which Ms. Wearing pulls the whole thing off.

The New York Times - Arts

A4 Circus Ensemble find some lovely moments thanks to delicate skills; a performer moves around a suspended hula hoop, paper umbrellas are set rotating on the top of another's feet.

The Guardian

An evening gown, showing pink ribbons down the backbone as the model writhed on a wine red sofa, was a reminder of the designer's delicate skills.

The New York Times

(But the no-hitter is a delicate, difficult accomplishment, contingent both on skill and circumstance: Roger Clemens never threw one; Hideo Nomo had two).

The New Yorker

Orchestrated post-Wozzeck in 1928, they called for more delicate skills.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a delicate skill" when describing an ability that requires precision, sensitivity, and careful execution. For example, "Negotiating international treaties requires "a delicate skill".

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate skill" in overly casual situations. Opt for simpler terms like "knack" or "talent" when the context doesn't warrant a more formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate skill" functions as a noun phrase, where "delicate" modifies the noun "skill". According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in English, typically used to describe abilities requiring precision and sensitivity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Arts

25%

Books

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delicate skill" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig, employed to describe abilities requiring precision and sensitivity. It's most frequently found in News & Media, Arts and Books, suggesting a neutral to professional register. When seeking alternatives, consider "refined ability" or "subtle talent" depending on the context. Remember to use the phrase appropriately, avoiding overuse in overly informal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a refined ability

Focuses on the sophistication and polish of the skill.

a subtle talent

Emphasizes the understated and nuanced nature of the skill.

a precise art

Highlights the accuracy and artistry involved.

a sensitive technique

Stresses the need for awareness and responsiveness.

a careful craft

Suggests meticulousness and attention to detail.

a masterful touch

Implies expertise and control.

a deft hand

Conveys nimbleness and proficiency.

a fine art

Focuses on the skill as something refined and complex.

an exacting discipline

Highlights the rigorous and demanding nature of the skill.

a specialized aptitude

Emphasizes the specific and unique nature of the skill.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a delicate skill" in a sentence?

Use "a delicate skill" to describe abilities needing careful handling and precision. For instance, "Diplomacy is "a delicate skill" in international relations".

What are some alternatives to "a delicate skill"?

You can use alternatives like "refined ability", "subtle talent", or "precise art" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a delicate skill"?

It's appropriate when referring to a task or ability that requires careful and sensitive execution, often in professional or artistic contexts.

How does "a delicate skill" differ from a regular skill?

"A delicate skill" implies more than just competence; it suggests a need for finesse, sensitivity, and careful handling, unlike a regular skill which may only require basic proficiency.