are tender with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are tender with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gentle or caring attitude towards someone or something. Example: "Parents are often tender with their children, providing love and support during difficult times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Its leaves are tender, with a very mild flavour, and are available as salad leaves almost year-round.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The cliches are cliches precisely because they're such a part of our popular idea of gangsters: they love their mothers, they love good food, they make the sign of the cross at the drop of the hat, they kiss one another on the cheeks, they don't swear in the presence of women, and they are tender with their children.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Madame is tender with M'sieu,.

The New Yorker

My heart was tender with love for him.

The Washington Post

"She never ceased to be tender with Naima, who was innocent, of course.

The New Yorker

Her cake was tender with sliced apples, but her almond cookies crumbled at the touch.

The New Yorker

St . Louispork ribs were tender with wonderfully burnt ends and a terrific bark.

The New York Times

The grizzly was tender with youth and from a winter in the den.

The New Yorker

If this is tender with a little give, it is ripe.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Marinated in oregano, cumin and lime, it was tender with a lightly spiced bite.

The New York Times - Travel

Among the entrees, a slice of roasted pork (again, from a Skye purveyor) was tender, with a rich sweetness.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are tender with" to convey a sense of gentleness and care, particularly in contexts where emotional sensitivity is valued. For instance, describing interactions between family members or portraying a character's nurturing side.

Common error

Avoid using "are tender with" in highly technical or analytical writing where objectivity is paramount. Opt for more neutral language to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are tender with" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, characterizing a subject's behavior or attitude towards someone or something. Ludwig indicates that it is considered grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are tender with" is a grammatically sound and emotionally resonant phrase that describes gentle and caring interactions. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides examples across diverse contexts. While its frequency is relatively uncommon, it effectively conveys warmth and sensitivity, making it suitable for news, lifestyle, and narrative writing. When choosing to use "are tender with", consider the tone and audience, opting for more neutral language in highly technical contexts. Related phrases, such as "are gentle with" or "show tenderness towards", can offer subtle variations in meaning and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are gentle with

Direct synonym, replacing "tender" with "gentle" maintaining the structure.

show tenderness towards

Rephrases the action as 'showing' tenderness, emphasizing the outward expression of care.

treat gently

Focuses on the manner of treatment, highlighting the careful and considerate approach.

display compassion for

Emphasizes the feeling of compassion that motivates the tender behavior.

handle with care

Suggests a delicate and cautious approach in dealing with something or someone.

are considerate of

Highlights the thoughtfulness and awareness of others' feelings or needs.

are kind to

A more general expression of positive and caring behavior.

cherish

Implies a deep affection and protectiveness.

have a soft spot for

Indicates a particular fondness or affection.

look after with affection

Emphasizes caring and protectiveness combined with warmth and fondness.

FAQs

How can I use "are tender with" in a sentence?

The phrase "are tender with" expresses a gentle and caring attitude. For example: "Parents are often tender with their children" or "She "shows tenderness towards" animals".

What are some alternatives to "are tender with"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "are gentle with", "treat gently", or "display compassion for".

Is "are tender with" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "are tender with" might sound too emotional for some formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "are considerate of" or "handle with care" for a more neutral tone.

What's the difference between "are tender with" and "are affectionate with"?

"Are tender with" emphasizes gentleness and care, while "are affectionate with" focuses on expressing love and fondness. Tenderness implies a protective quality, whereas affection is a display of warmth.