be a delicate matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a delicate matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation that requires careful handling or sensitivity due to its potentially sensitive nature. Example: "Discussing the layoffs with the employees will be a delicate matter that needs to be approached with caution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

ROBERTA SMITH Holland Cotter Buying art books as holiday gifts can be a delicate matter.

The New York Times - Arts

Genetic information can be a delicate matter, particularly if it reveals a person's susceptibility to disease.

The New York Times

This will be a delicate matter for Woodson, who has 23 games to establish himself, right the ship and get the Knicks in the playoffs.

The New York Times - Sports

Any American interference in communications here would be a delicate matter, even if Brazil's president, Dilma Rousseff, were not scheduled to make a state visit to the United States in October.

The New York Times

Mr. Cuomo is far ahead in the polls; one of his few areas of vulnerability is his relations with black political leaders, and openly criticizing Mr. Sampson and Gov. David A. Paterson would be a delicate matter.

The New York Times

Any Irish bailout would be a delicate matter for Germany, which strongly resisted the bailout of Greece and has been pushing to overhaul the current mechanism for European rescues to ensure that private investors help foot the bill of any sovereign defaults.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

8. Bedside commodes are a delicate matter.

The New York Times

This is a delicate matter.

The New York Times

Competing with your customers is a delicate matter.

The New York Times

But basing psychotherapy around spiritual concepts is a delicate matter.

The New York Times

Climate is a delicate matter in a place like this.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a delicate matter", consider the specific reasons why the situation is delicate and ensure your language reflects that nuance. For instance, specify if it's due to privacy concerns, potential for conflict, or emotional sensitivity.

Common error

Avoid using "be a delicate matter" when a simpler, more direct phrase would suffice. Overusing this phrase can make your writing sound overly dramatic or unnecessarily cautious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a delicate matter" functions as a predicative expression, characterizing a subject as requiring careful and sensitive handling. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase correctly reflects its grammatical status.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a delicate matter" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that serves to highlight the need for careful handling in sensitive situations. Ludwig AI supports this conclusion. While not extremely common, it finds frequent use in news and media, signaling a neutral to slightly formal register. When employing this phrase, it's important to consider the specific reasons for the delicacy and ensure your language reflects the required nuance, while avoiding overuse to prevent sounding overly dramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a sensitive subject

Focuses on the sensitivity of the topic itself, rather than the handling of it.

be a touchy subject

Similar to 'sensitive subject' but implies a higher risk of causing offense or discomfort.

require careful handling

Highlights the need for caution and thoughtfulness in dealing with the situation.

be a tricky situation

Emphasizes the difficulty and potential for problems in the circumstances.

demand a cautious approach

Stresses the importance of proceeding with care and awareness.

need to be approached with caution

Similar to 'demand a cautious approach' but focuses on the action of addressing the matter.

be fraught with difficulty

Indicates that the situation is likely to be challenging and problematic.

present a challenge

Focuses on the difficulty and the need for problem-solving skills.

be a complex issue

Highlights the multifaceted nature of the problem and the need for careful consideration.

be a sensitive area

Similar to "be a sensitive subject", but used when the subject can have broader implications that affect multiple different parties.

FAQs

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

You can use "be a delicate matter" to describe a situation that requires careful handling. For instance, "Negotiating the contract will "be a delicate matter", requiring sensitivity to both parties' needs."

What can I say instead of "be a delicate matter"?

Alternatives include "be a sensitive subject", "require careful handling", or "be a tricky situation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "be a delicate matter" formal or informal?

"Be a delicate matter" is generally considered neutral to formal in tone and is appropriate for professional and news contexts.

What makes something "be a delicate matter"?

A situation might "be a delicate matter" due to the potential for causing offense, violating privacy, creating conflict, or generating emotional distress. The key is that careful and sensitive handling is required.