a delicate time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period that is sensitive or requires careful handling, often due to emotional or situational factors. Example: "We are going through a delicate time in our relationship, and we need to communicate openly to navigate it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The succession process comes at a delicate time for the Fed.

Huffington Post

"June is a delicate time," insisted Katanec.

Independent

This is a delicate time in Iran.

The New York Times

It will be a delicate time.

The Economist

The turmoil comes at a delicate time.

The Washington Post

This call comes at a delicate time for Mexico.

The Economist

But the looming cash crunch comes at a delicate time.

The New York Times

Saturday's announcement came at a delicate time in the region.

The New York Times

The dispute comes at a delicate time for Icann.

The New York Times - Tech

Austerity comes to the nation at a delicate time, though.

The New York Times

Diplomatically, the announcement comes at a delicate time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a delicate time", ensure the context clearly indicates why the situation is sensitive. Provide specific details or examples to illustrate the potential risks or challenges involved.

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate time" as a vague placeholder. If you can replace it with a more specific description of the situation, such as "a period of economic uncertainty" or "a moment of political instability", your writing will be more impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate time" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. Ludwig AI suggests that it correctly describes a sensitive period needing careful handling.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a delicate time" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a period or situation requiring careful handling due to its sensitivity or potential for negative outcomes. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples, primarily from news sources, confirms its frequent use in highlighting situations where tact and caution are paramount. When using "a delicate time", it's beneficial to provide specific context to clarify the reasons behind the sensitivity and potential risks. While many alternatives exist, such as "a sensitive moment" or "a critical juncture", the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. This phrase is deemed appropriate for neutral and objective reporting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive moment

Replaces "time" with "moment", emphasizing the brevity and potential volatility of the situation.

a sensitive phase

Similar to 'a sensitive moment', but suggests a period instead of a specific point.

a tense moment

Emphasizes the underlying stress and anxiety associated with the time.

a critical juncture

Focuses on the importance of the time, highlighting its potential to significantly alter outcomes.

a vulnerable period

Focuses on the susceptibility to negative outcomes during this time.

a precarious period

Highlights the instability and potential danger associated with the time.

a tricky situation

Shifts focus from time to the overall circumstance, emphasizing the need for careful navigation.

a challenging phase

Replaces "time" with "phase", suggesting a longer duration and emphasizing the difficulty involved.

a testing moment

Emphasizes the difficulty of the situation.

an awkward stage

Highlights the potential for social discomfort or embarrassment during this time.

FAQs

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

You can use "a delicate time" to describe a period or situation that requires careful handling or sensitivity. For example, "This is "a delicate time" for negotiations between the two companies."

What are some alternatives to "a delicate time"?

Some alternatives to "a delicate time" include "a sensitive moment", "a critical juncture", or "a precarious period" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a delicate time" or "a difficult time"?

The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "A difficult time" /s/a+difficult+time suggests hardship or adversity, while "a delicate time" /s/a+delicate+time implies sensitivity and the need for careful handling.

What makes a situation "a delicate time"?

A situation becomes "a delicate time" /s/a+delicate+time when there's a high risk of negative consequences if things are mishandled, or when sensitivity is required due to emotional or political factors.