delicate as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delicate as" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to make a comparison, often describing something that is fragile or sensitive in nature. Example: "The fabric was as delicate as a spider's web, requiring careful handling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Food

Arts

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Some were sheer and delicate, as fine as lace.

The New York Times - Food

He thought young mallards afforded "delicate as well as savoury food".

The New York Times - Arts

Silk would be a delicate as well.

WikiHow

Inexhaustible, delicate, as if.

The New Yorker

Not quite as delicate as the others.

The New York Times - Food

Nothing so limpid and delicate as spring could penetrate here.

The New Yorker

"Horses are as delicate as they are strong," she said.

The New York Times

It is airborne, light as a zephyr, delicate as eiderdown".

The New York Times

A voice as delicate as Ms. Kent's requires special handling.

The New York Times - Arts

Hei-Kyung Hong is appropriately delicate as Micaëla.

The New York Times - Arts

Yet it's not as delicate as it might seem.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "delicate as" to create vivid comparisons that emphasize the fragility, subtlety, or precision of something. For example, "the diplomatic situation was as delicate as a house of cards."

Common error

While "delicate as" is versatile, avoid overuse in highly formal or technical writing where more precise or nuanced language may be preferred. Consider using more specific adjectives or descriptive phrases to convey the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delicate as" functions as a comparative, using the adjective "delicate" to describe a noun by likening it to something else. It creates a vivid image, emphasizing fragility, subtlety, or precision, as illustrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Food

8%

Arts

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "delicate as" is a common and grammatically sound comparative expression used to emphasize fragility, subtlety, or precision. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is versatile and appears frequently in contexts such as news, food writing, and arts criticism. While highly adaptable, writers should be mindful of the register and avoid overuse in overly formal or technical contexts. The phrase invites the reader to draw connections between the subject and the comparative element, enhancing imagery and depth in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as fragile as

Emphasizes the fragility and vulnerability of something, focusing on its easily breakable nature.

as subtle as

Highlights the understated and nuanced quality, indicating a fine and delicate distinction.

as fine as

Focuses on the refined and intricate nature, suggesting a high level of detail and precision.

as sensitive as

Underscores the responsiveness and susceptibility to external influences, emphasizing its easily affected nature.

as exquisite as

Highlights the exceptional beauty and artistry, suggesting a delicate and refined quality.

as intricate as

Implies a complex and elaborate structure, highlighting its detailed and delicate construction.

as precarious as

Focuses on the instability and risk associated, suggesting a fragile and uncertain state.

as tender as

Emphasizes the gentleness and care required, highlighting its delicate and vulnerable nature.

as light as

Focuses on the minimal weight or impact, suggesting a delicate and ethereal quality.

as sheer as

Highlights the transparency and thinness, indicating a delicate and almost imperceptible quality.

FAQs

How can I use "delicate as" in a sentence?

Use "delicate as" to create a comparison, illustrating the fragile or subtle nature of something. For instance, "Her health was as delicate as a flower" shows her vulnerability.

What are some alternatives to "delicate as"?

You can use alternatives like "as fragile as", "as subtle as", or "as fine as" depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "delicate as"?

While grammatically correct, "delicate as" may not be suitable for highly formal or technical writing. Opt for more precise language when necessary.

What's the difference between "delicate as" and "as sensitive as"?

"Delicate as" typically refers to fragility or subtlety, whereas "as sensitive as" emphasizes responsiveness or susceptibility to external influences. The choice depends on the specific quality you wish to highlight.