delicate distinctions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delicate distinctions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing subtle differences or nuances between concepts, ideas, or categories. Example: "In philosophy, understanding the delicate distinctions between various schools of thought is crucial for a comprehensive analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The Northern Alliance refuses; it calls Mullah Omar, along with Mr bin Laden, a war criminal, and is little inclined to draw delicate distinctions.

The Economist

These are the most general categories; there are of course more delicate distinctions to be made within them.

Functional Linguistics

While the less delicate distinctions in Tatu's system of Mood type are non-controversial and correspond to the general distinctions recognized in the typological literature, the more delicate distinctions appear to confound Mood type with its realizations and with Process type.

Functional Linguistics

In summary, the prosodic patterns which relate to the least delicate distinctions in the BH mood system are realized by means of segments strongly associated with clause-initial position.

Functional Linguistics

The next section will show that the Finite/Predicator is the central element in the mood structure, the element which "carries the burden of the clause as an interactive event" ((Halliday & Matthiessen 2014): 150), although the various Negotiators serve to realize certain more delicate distinctions in mood.

Functional Linguistics

She works with the unruliness of the material to feature delicate distinctions and quiet moments that she observes in people brought together by art.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It is a delicate distinction, one even his friends worry might well be lost on most people.

The New York Times

In today's diplolingo, it means "a delicate distinction; a subtle shading or veiled variation that gives a hint of a shift in tone".

The New York Times - Magazine

A New York police officer was convicted on Tuesday in a bizarre plot to kidnap, torture, kill and eat women, ending a trial whose outcome hinged on a delicate distinction between fantasy and reality.

The New York Times

In addition, it offers a topological perspective of the intersection of the more delicate distinction of process types and the system of Agency.

Functional Linguistics

Herein lies the delicate distinction between financial federalism and regulatory federalism, one often missed by members of Congress that may leave the very lives of their constituents hanging in the balance.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "delicate distinctions" when you want to emphasize the subtlety and potential fragility of the differences being discussed. It's particularly effective in academic, philosophical, or legal contexts where precision is important.

Common error

Avoid using "delicate distinctions" in everyday conversation. The phrase is formal and can sound pretentious if used inappropriately. Opt for simpler terms like "subtle differences" or "minor variations" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delicate distinctions" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or a verb. It identifies subtle or nuanced differences that require careful consideration. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "delicate distinctions" is a grammatically correct and useful expression for highlighting subtle, often fragile, differences that require careful consideration. While not extremely common, as indicated by Ludwig, its use is appropriate in formal contexts like academic discussions, legal analyses, and philosophical debates. The phrase is generally employed to emphasize the importance of precision and to avoid overlooking nuanced variations. Alternatives like ""subtle differences"" or ""fine points"" may be more suitable for informal contexts. Always consider the audience and the level of formality required when choosing to use this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subtle differences

Replaces "delicate" with "subtle", focusing on the slightness of the differences.

slight variations

Emphasizes the small degree of difference.

minute differences

Highlights how incredibly small the difference is.

fine points

Emphasizes the precision and detail of the distinctions.

nuanced variations

Highlights the subtle variations and shades of meaning.

shade of difference

Underscores the minute degree of variation.

minor gradations

Focuses on the small degrees of difference between things.

hairline distinction

Highlights how incredibly slight the difference is.

thin line

Highlights the boundary between two similar concepts.

niceties of the matter

Focuses on the subtleties of the matter being discussed.

FAQs

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

You can use "delicate distinctions" to emphasize subtle differences. For example: "The legal case hinged on "delicate distinctions" between similar contract clauses."

What are some alternatives to "delicate distinctions"?

Alternatives include "subtle differences", "fine points", or "nuanced variations", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "delicate distinctions"?

While grammatically correct, using "delicate distinctions" might be inappropriate in informal contexts. Simpler phrases may be more suitable for everyday conversation.

What is the difference between "delicate distinctions" and "fine distinctions"?

"Delicate distinctions" emphasizes the fragility or subtlety of the differences, while "fine distinctions" simply highlights the precision required to perceive them. The terms are largely interchangeable, but "delicate" adds an extra layer of nuance.