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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
delicate
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The word "delicate" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when describing something that is exquisitely fine or sensitive in nature. For example, "The delicate fabric felt light and airy when I touched it."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Lifestyle
Sport
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Lukashenko has toed a delicate line over the years, trying to assert his nation's independence of Russia while conscious of the power that Vladimir Putin holds over him.
News & Media
Delicate cous cous, fragrant with toasted almonds and confit lemons, sits in a clean white bowl into which is placed lobster tails and stunning shellfish bisque.
News & Media
A handful of objects including a Victorian cast of the head of a hanged man and a delicate lace pillow embroidered with her own hair by a woman arrested hundreds of times for public drunkenness have left one of the most private collections in the world for the first time, for the first public exhibition from the Black Museum of the Metropolitan police.
News & Media
As a communications officer at Medecin sans Frontieres she has had plenty of experience of the delicate relationship between journalists and NGOs.
News & Media
Instead of a party henchman we now have a pragmatist in charge of the delicate relationship between central and local government, a relationship that will dictate how the crisis is solved.
News & Media
That she's an irresistible mixture of delicate and dangerous?
News & Media
Three "courses" might comprise, say, yoghurt with fruit, then smoked salmon and cream cheese or Mexican-style eggs, then homemade cake, all beautifully served on delicate white china with white linen napkins.
News & Media
It all came to a head on Sunday night, though, when she appeared on the red carpet in an ice-blue number with a delicate gold and diamond headband, and a froggy ring on the little finger of her right hand.
News & Media
There has to be a delicate balance between internet security and common sense.
News & Media
You do need mature spinach, of the kind that's so puzzlingly ignored by supermarkets, who favour the baby leaves that are far too delicate for this dish; I'm lucky enough to have a local market that sells it in big muddy bunches; greengrocers and farm shops are other good sources.
News & Media
Poroshenko will also need to steer a delicate geopolitical path, moving the country towards closer ties with Europe demanded by the Euromaidan protests that swept out the government of Viktor Yanukovych in February, while improving relations with Russia, Ukraine's often belligerent neighbour.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing abstract concepts like relationships or negotiations, use "delicate" to emphasize the need for careful handling and sensitivity.
Common error
Avoid using "delicate" when describing precision instruments or technical processes where "precise", "accurate", or "calibrated" would be more appropriate.
Source & Trust
93%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The word "delicate" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe their qualities. It suggests sensitivity, fragility, or the need for careful handling. Ludwig shows many examples where "delicate" describes both physical objects and abstract concepts.
Frequent in
News & Media
65%
Lifestyle
20%
Sport
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
2%
Science
2%
Encyclopedias
1%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The word "delicate" is a versatile adjective that describes something easily damaged, finely structured, or requiring careful handling. Ludwig AI confirms that the word is correct and can be used in written English. It is commonly used in various contexts, including News & Media, Lifestyle, and Sport, making it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary. When using "delicate", consider the need for carefulness or sensitivity and choose synonyms like "fragile" or "sensitive" based on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid overuse in highly technical contexts where precision is key.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
fragile
Emphasizes physical vulnerability to damage.
sensitive
Highlights responsiveness to external stimuli or emotional nuance.
fine
Focuses on the refined and subtle qualities.
exquisite
Stresses exceptional beauty and detail.
frail
Indicates weakness and susceptibility to harm.
subtle
Highlights the understated nature of something.
dainty
Implies smallness, prettiness, and refinement.
elegant
Focuses on grace and stylishness.
refined
Stresses sophistication and cultivation.
precarious
Highlights the unstable and risky nature of a situation.
FAQs
How can I use the word "delicate" in a sentence?
You can use "delicate" to describe something easily damaged, finely structured, or requiring careful handling. For example, "The negotiations were very delicate" or "The fabric was delicate and tore easily".
What are some synonyms for "delicate"?
Is it correct to use "delicate" to describe a person's health?
Yes, "delicate" can describe a person's health, particularly if they are frail or easily become ill. For example, "A delicate child" suggests the child is not robust.
How does "delicate" differ from "fragile"?
"Delicate" implies a need for careful handling due to potential damage or sensitivity, while "fragile" specifically emphasizes the ease with which something can be broken. "Delicate" can also refer to subtlety or refinement, whereas "fragile" typically refers to physical weakness.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
93%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested