be a delicate issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a delicate issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic that is sensitive or requires careful handling due to its potential impact on feelings or opinions. Example: "The decision to close the local school has proven to be a delicate issue among the community members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

These students can be a delicate issue, as Herman Badillo, chairman of the City University of New York, found out last fall.

The New York Times

Some flag-draped patriots appeared to be on the government's payroll; others, such as a political blogger, Nguyen Huu Vinh, temporarily put their domestic grievances on hold in the name of national unity.Popular anti-China sentiment will be a delicate issue for the Vietnamese government.

The Economist

While spending time with the extended family especially during holiday is important, supervision can be a delicate issue.

Huffington Post

Training the Vladikavaz specialists, however, has proven to be a delicate issue.

Unicef

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It is a delicate issue, however.

The Economist

Nudity in particular is a delicate issue.

The New York Times

"It's a delicate issue," she said.

The New York Times

"This is a delicate issue," he says.

The Economist

It is a delicate issue.

The New York Times

JT: That's a delicate issue.

The Guardian - Music

The status of arbakai militiamen is a delicate issue.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "be a delicate issue", consider your audience and the potential impact of your words. Choose language that is respectful and avoids unnecessary offense.

Common error

Avoid using "be a delicate issue" as a generic placeholder. Instead, specify why the issue is delicate. What sensitivities are involved? What potential consequences might arise?

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a delicate issue" functions as a descriptor, identifying a subject or situation that requires careful and sensitive handling. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The expression "be a delicate issue" serves to highlight topics needing careful attention due to possible sensitivities. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness in English writing. Usage is more prevalent in news contexts, reflecting its function in describing situations needing tact. When using "be a delicate issue", specify the reason for the delicacy to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like ""be a sensitive matter"" or ""be a tricky situation"" offer slight variations in tone. Remember to consider your audience and the specific sensitivities involved for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a sensitive matter

Changes the adjective from "delicate" to "sensitive", emphasizing the potential for causing emotional distress.

be a tricky situation

Replaces "delicate issue" with "tricky situation", focusing on the difficulty of handling the matter.

be a touchy subject

Uses "touchy subject" instead of "delicate issue", highlighting the potential for disagreement or offense.

require careful handling

Shifts the focus to the action needed, rather than the nature of the issue itself.

demand tactful treatment

Emphasizes the need for diplomacy and sensitivity in addressing the situation.

call for a nuanced approach

Suggests the necessity of a subtle and well-considered strategy.

be fraught with difficulties

Highlights the presence of challenges and potential problems.

pose a challenge

Indicates that the issue presents an obstacle that needs to be overcome.

involve potential controversy

Directly points out the risk of disagreement or public debate.

present a minefield

Uses a metaphor to describe the situation as full of hidden dangers and risks.

FAQs

How can I use "be a delicate issue" in a sentence?

You can use "be a delicate issue" to describe a topic that requires careful and sensitive handling. For example, "Negotiating the contract terms can "be a delicate issue" due to the differing priorities of each party."

What are some alternatives to "be a delicate issue"?

Alternatives include "be a sensitive matter", "be a tricky situation", or "be a touchy subject", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "be a delicate issue"?

While grammatically correct, "be a delicate issue" might sometimes sound understated. Consider whether a stronger phrase like "present a significant challenge" or "require careful negotiation" might be more appropriate.

What makes something "be a delicate issue"?

An issue is "be a delicate issue" when it involves sensitive topics, conflicting opinions, potential for offense, or requires careful consideration to avoid negative consequences.