a delicate topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate topic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a subject that is sensitive or requires careful handling due to its nature. Example: "Discussing mental health can be a delicate topic, so it's important to approach it with empathy and understanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Rainer, another brain, is a delicate topic.

The New Yorker

Pryor's development is a delicate topic for Tressel.

The New York Times - Sports

But for some airport officials, it is a delicate topic.

The New York Times

Global warming, of course, is a delicate topic.

The New York Times

Stephen Eastepp, Dynamo Theory, Houston: This week is a delicate topic in Houston.

The Guardian - Sport

Their accusations highlight a delicate topic on Wall Street: the lack of women executives at the top.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

"In my family, it's a very delicate topic," said Luis Estrada, an architect.

The New York Times

There is no new approach to immigration — a traditionally delicate topic in Japan, which sees itself as an ethnically uniform country — and it merely hints of tweaking immigration rules to try to attract more skilled workers, and only after further discussion.

The New York Times

On the other hand, one doesn't want to be intrusive around a potentially delicate topic.

The New York Times

"The embargo is a very delicate topic," said William Quijano, 47, who left Cuba 17 years ago.

The New York Times

But more confirmation is needed, as this is a very delicate topic".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing “a delicate topic”, consider providing context or a disclaimer to manage expectations and demonstrate sensitivity.

Common error

Avoid beginning discussions with “a delicate topic” without immediately clarifying what the topic is, as this can create unnecessary anxiety or confusion. Be direct and respectful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase “a delicate topic” functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It serves to identify a subject matter that requires careful handling due to its sensitive nature, as indicated by examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, “a delicate topic” is a commonly used phrase to introduce subjects requiring sensitivity and careful handling. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, it’s crucial to provide immediate context to avoid ambiguity and foster a respectful dialogue. Alternatives such as "a sensitive issue" or "a touchy subject" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the specific nuance required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensitive topic

Interchangeable with the original phrase, focusing on the emotional or ethical considerations.

a sensitive issue

Replaces 'topic' with 'issue', emphasizing the problematic nature of the subject.

a touchy subject

Substitutes 'delicate' with 'touchy', indicating a high potential for causing offense or disagreement.

a charged issue

Replaces 'delicate' with 'charged', indicating a high level of emotional intensity.

a controversial issue

Replaces 'delicate' with 'controversial', highlighting the presence of strong opposing viewpoints.

a difficult matter

Emphasizes the challenging nature of the 'matter' being discussed.

a thorny question

Uses 'thorny' to describe the question, suggesting it is complex and potentially painful to address.

a problematic area

Shifts the focus to a specific 'area' that presents difficulties or challenges.

a fraught subject

Uses 'fraught' to convey the tension and anxiety associated with the subject.

a tricky situation

Shifts the focus to the situation, highlighting the need for careful navigation.

FAQs

How can I introduce "a delicate topic" in a presentation?

Start by acknowledging the sensitivity of the subject and explaining why it's important to discuss it. For instance, you could say, "I want to address "a sensitive issue" related to project timelines, but I assure you I’ll handle it respectfully." This sets a tone of openness and consideration.

What are some alternatives to saying "a delicate topic"?

You can use alternatives like "a sensitive subject", "a touchy subject", or "a controversial topic" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "a delicate topic" when discussing sensitive issues?

No, it's not always necessary. Sometimes, directly addressing the issue with empathy and respect can be more effective. For example, instead of saying, "This is a delicate topic, but…", you could directly say, "I understand this is a sensitive matter, and I want to approach it carefully."

What makes a topic "delicate"?

A topic is considered "delicate" when it involves personal, ethical, or controversial issues that could cause discomfort, disagreement, or offense. Approaching such topics requires consideration, empathy, and careful wording.