at this delicate time

USAGE SUMMARY

"at this delicate time" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used in a variety of contexts to indicate a specific point in time that is sensitive, critical, or challenging. Here are a few examples: - "We must be cautious at this delicate time in our negotiations, as any misstep could jeopardize the entire deal." - "The government has implemented strict measures to control the spread of the virus at this delicate time for public health." - "I appreciate your support at this delicate time in my life, as I navigate through a difficult personal situation." - "The company is facing financial instability at this delicate time, but we are determined to overcome it and come out stronger." - "We need to handle this delicate situation with care and sensitivity, as emotions are running high at this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The last thing Lenny Wilkens needs at this delicate time is to be recast as Don Chaney.

The New York Times - Sports

The campaign has a "simple, touching, appropriate tone," he added, and is "the right message we want to communicate" at this delicate time.

The New York Times

For the first time I will behave like a grown-up, not allowing myself to fall prey to "birthday neurosis" or drop clues about how a trip to Europe would be so beneficial at this delicate time of life.

The New York Times

Clinton, the former US secretary of State who is a potential 2016 presidential contender, warned during a speech at the University of California on Wednesday night that all parties in the Ukraine crisis "should avoid steps that could be misinterpreted or lead to miscalculation at this delicate time".

The Guardian

But, she added, "there is a lot of manipulation of the facts in the media at this delicate time".

Science Magazine

At this delicate time, it is essential not to craft a consequence, or set of consequences, that unwittingly promotes and encourages the very behavior you are trying to discourage.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Collins said Duda's offensive slump was not helping the team at this particularly delicate time.

The New York Times

"One can speculate that at this delicate historical/religious time, it was thought that the usual modes for the transformation of the king were not sufficient, and so the priest-embalmers prepared the body in such a way so as to literally emphasize the divinity of the king and his identification with Osiris," Ikram writes.

Huffington Post

This turmoil comes at a delicate time for the N.H.L. Attendance rose 1.1percentthisiseasonon, according to the league, but many of those tickets were sold before the financial crisis took hold last September.

The New York Times - Sports

This call comes at a delicate time for Mexico.

The Economist

And am I wrong for even using the word jet at a delicate time like this?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at this delicate time" to underscore the need for caution, sensitivity, or strategic planning due to existing vulnerabilities or uncertainties.

Common error

Avoid using "at this delicate time" in situations that aren't genuinely sensitive or critical; using it too broadly can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at this delicate time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when an action occurs, emphasizing the sensitivity or criticality of the timing. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at this delicate time" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to emphasize the critical or sensitive nature of a particular moment. Ludwig AI validates its proper use in English writing. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, signaling the need for caution or strategic action. While it’s a useful phrase, it's important to avoid overuse in non-critical situations to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "during this sensitive period" or "in the midst of this critical juncture" can provide similar emphasis with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during this sensitive period

Emphasizes the sensitivity of the timeframe, focusing on the need for careful handling.

in the midst of this critical juncture

Highlights the decisiveness and potential turning point of the situation.

under the current circumstances

Focuses on the present conditions influencing the situation.

given the present situation

Similar to 'under the current circumstances', it directs attention to the existing state of affairs.

at such a precarious moment

Stresses the instability and potential danger of the present time.

with things as they stand

Highlights current conditions and their direct influence.

in these trying times

Emphasizes the difficulty and hardship associated with the present period.

in light of recent events

Draws attention to the impact of recent occurrences on the current situation.

considering the sensitivity of the matter

Shifts focus specifically to how the delicate nature of the topic influences actions.

as matters stand

Implies an assessment of the current state and its implications for moving forward.

FAQs

How can I appropriately use "at this delicate time" in a sentence?

Use "at this delicate time" to emphasize the need for caution or sensitivity when a situation is unstable or critical. For example, "We must proceed carefully "at this delicate time" in the negotiations".

What are some alternatives to saying "at this delicate time"?

Alternatives include "during this sensitive period", "in the midst of this critical juncture", or "under the current circumstances", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "at this delicate time" and "at this difficult time"?

"At this delicate time" emphasizes sensitivity and the need for careful handling, while "at this difficult time" focuses on hardship and challenges. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight vulnerability or adversity.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "at this delicate time"?

Avoid using "at this delicate time" in contexts that aren't genuinely critical or sensitive. Overusing it can diminish its impact. Opt for more neutral language if the situation doesn't warrant a heightened sense of caution.