a delicate work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delicate work" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a piece of art, literature, or any task that requires careful handling or sensitivity. Example: "The artist's latest exhibition features a delicate work that captures the fragility of nature."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The Presidio is a delicate work in progress, and the trust a controversial landlord.

The New York Times

A rooftop glass enclosure for a spiral stair is a delicate work of steel and glass, also furniture-like.

The Guardian - Arts

"Eden as We Recall," a delicate work by Stacy Spence, is a dance about space: What does a room feel like?

The New York Times - Arts

In fact, with a big family revelation at the end, there may be too much plot for such a delicate work to support.

The New York Times

But since the Palestinian nation has not yet emerged, the curriculum is a delicate work in progress, fodder for criticism from within and without.

The New York Times

"Mozartiana" is a delicate work, and this production's slow tempo does not help although Jesus Pastor had the right energy for the "Gigue" section.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Most of the celeb "pap" pics you see are the result of a delicate working balance between the celebrities, their agents, the photographers and, eventually, us.

Vice

It's a fragile, delicate work, with Gilbertson's lyrics and the music of musical director Marcel Bergmann diving into the classical realm before butting up against, say, a rap about the streets.

Huffington Post

A recent work can be scanned by machine, but a rare or delicate work cannot be, because such works may be damaged by the scanner.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Myanmar remains a complicated and delicate work in progress. .

Los Angeles Times

However, classical gene cloning is a tedious and time-consuming work which usually requires constructing and screening a library, and delicate work often does not assure successful cloning.

DNA Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing artistic creations or sensitive endeavors, use "a delicate work" to convey the need for careful handling and appreciation.

Common error

Avoid using "a delicate work" to describe ordinary or routine activities. Reserve it for situations where genuine care, precision, or sensitivity is involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delicate work" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "delicate" modifies the noun "work". It describes a task, creation, or endeavor that requires careful attention and sensitivity. Ludwig provides several examples showcasing this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delicate work" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes something requiring careful handling or sensitive treatment. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in various contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Science. While suitable for both formal and informal writing, it is best reserved for situations genuinely demanding precision and care. Alternatives like "a subtle creation" or "an intricate piece" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Therefore, use "a delicate work" when you want to highlight the fragility and the need for careful attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a subtle creation

Focuses on the understated and nuanced nature of the work.

an intricate piece

Highlights the complex and detailed construction of the work.

a fragile endeavor

Emphasizes the risk of failure or damage associated with the undertaking.

a sensitive undertaking

Underscores the need for care and consideration in approaching the work.

a painstaking effort

Stresses the meticulous and diligent nature of the work.

a demanding task

Highlights the high level of skill and attention required.

a meticulous project

Emphasizes the precise and thorough execution of the work.

a tender composition

Implies a gentle and careful arrangement of elements.

a precarious undertaking

Suggests the instability or riskiness involved in the work.

a finely wrought creation

Highlights the exquisite and carefully crafted nature of the work.

FAQs

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

You can use "a delicate work" to describe something that requires careful handling or a gentle approach. For instance, "Restoring the antique tapestry was "a delicate work" requiring expert skill".

What are some alternatives to "a delicate work"?

Depending on the context, you might use phrases like "a subtle creation", "an intricate piece", or "a fragile endeavor".

Is it appropriate to use "a delicate work" in formal writing?

Yes, "a delicate work" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing artistic creations, scientific endeavors, or sensitive undertakings.

What's the difference between "a delicate work" and "a difficult work"?

"A delicate work" emphasizes the need for careful handling and precision, while "a difficult work" simply implies that the task is challenging or hard to complete.