a little delicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a little delicate" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means that something is somewhat fragile or sensitive. Example: The situation is a little delicate at the moment, so we should handle it carefully.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I'm feeling a little delicate".

The New York Times

"I'm feeling a little delicate," she said.

The New Yorker

"It's a little delicate to serve this kind of cheese".

The New York Times - Food

A little delicate; a slight pallor, rimless glasses; a stooping posture under an anonymous raincoat.

The Guardian

On day two, the mood is contemplative, and perhaps a little delicate given how raucous things got the night before.

Independent

If by any chance you overeat and feel a little delicate, a medicinal meal might be in order.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"I don't know why," he said, "but they are a little soft — delicate".

The New Yorker

There's little delicate about A Swift Pure Cry, Siobhan Dowd's heartbreaking story of the gradual but inexorable implosion of the life of teenager Shell Talent after she becomes pregnant.

The Guardian - Books

This situation is a little more delicate".

The New York Times

"I also said it should be kind of graffiti, but a little more delicate, not as hard-edged, a little more refined".

The New Yorker

Suggesting a longtime incumbent is over the hill is a venerable election technique, but you really are supposed to be a little more delicate about it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a little delicate" to describe a person's state of health, to suggest they are not feeling well but not severely ill.

Common error

While "a little delicate" is acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make your tone seem overly cautious or vague. Opt for more precise language to convey the specific nuance you intend.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little delicate" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating a state of fragility, sensitivity, or requiring careful handling. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, backed by numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a little delicate" serves as a useful descriptive adjective, indicating something requires careful and gentle handling. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and shows it is most frequently used in news and media contexts, as well as academic writing, and Wiki articles. When writing, be careful of overuse in formal contexts, and consider more precise alternatives such as ""somewhat fragile"" or ""slightly sensitive"" to better convey specific meanings and add clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat fragile

Focuses on the physical fragility of something.

a tad fragile

Uses more informal language.

slightly sensitive

Emphasizes emotional or physical sensitivity.

a shade sensitive

Uses the word "shade" to be interchangeable with "little".

rather tender

Highlights gentleness and vulnerability.

a degree fragile

Uses the word "degree" to be interchangeable with "little".

somewhat vulnerable

Highlights susceptibility to harm or criticism.

somewhat precarious

Suggests instability or uncertainty.

slightly unstable

Focuses on a lack of stability.

a bit touchy

Implies that something requires careful handling to avoid problems.

FAQs

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

You can use "a little delicate" to describe something fragile, sensitive, or requiring careful handling. For example, "The antique vase is "a little delicate", so please handle it with care" or "After the surgery, she's still "a little delicate"".

What is a similar phrase to "a little delicate"?

Similar phrases include "somewhat fragile", "slightly sensitive", or "rather tender", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a little delicate" in professional emails?

Yes, "a little delicate" can be used in professional emails when describing situations or items requiring careful attention. However, be mindful of your audience and ensure your tone remains professional and clear.

What does it mean when someone says a situation is "a little delicate"?

It means the situation requires careful handling to avoid causing problems or offense. It suggests sensitivity and a potential for things to go wrong if not managed properly.