delicate figures

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delicate figures" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe fragile or intricate shapes, forms, or representations, often in artistic or mathematical contexts. Example: "The artist skillfully painted delicate figures that seemed to dance across the canvas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But there's a genuine sweetness to Julie Paschkis's story and her delicate figures are beautifully arranged, swept off their feet, in the book's open, cream-colored pages.

The New York Times - Books

Reminiscent of the ceiling paintings by Giambattista Tiepolo in Italy and Bavaria at that time, their delicate figures and light colours are clearly Rococo.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Cast in delicate figures in the upper range of the keyboard, it created a fluid dreamscape that set expectations high for the rest of the program.

The New York Times - Arts

His Egyptians represent not the delicate figures of the ancient glyphs but the heart-on-sleeve Italians he would have found on his own street corner: big in emotion and, in a lot of productions, big in size as well.

The New York Times - Arts

Also worth noting are the ornate facades, amazing masks, delicate figures and intricate designs that adorn many of the buildings.

BBC

"Oyama's delicate figures certainly relate to her awareness of the human body," gallery associate Chloe Bensahel added, "having been a dancer in New York in the 1970s". .

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Early on, a pretty, delicate figure moved from a trumpet to a flute, while waves of strange harmony morphed as they passed through the wider orchestra.

The Guardian - Music

Softly spoken, she moved the Times to remark on her first visit to London in 1965 that she belied the "public image of female novelists [as] an intimidating and often unfeminine species" with her "striking beauty, delicate figure and corresponding quietness of manner".

The Guardian - Books

In the SYS models, neutrophilic exudates were detected in the lung (Figure 7B), while the alveolar walls of the ST infusion rats were thin and delicate (Figure 7A).

Plosone

For another song, four 10-foot pendulums swung in a computer-maneuvered sequence to pluck delicate, harplike figures.

The New York Times - Arts

Tolman places her delicate miniature figures in vast, sweeping landscapes on the border between magic and reality, with imagined sheep and lambs and a fox and bunnies gathering and parading alongside the very real figures of Kelly and Franklin.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing artwork or designs, use "delicate figures" to convey both the fragility and the intricacy of the forms.

Common error

Avoid using "delicate figures" when referring to abstract concepts or data. This phrase is most effective when describing tangible, visually perceptible shapes or forms.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delicate figures" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. The adjective "delicate" modifies the noun "figures", indicating that the figures are characterized by their fine detail and fragility. Ludwig AI shows examples in diverse contexts, from art descriptions to scientific analyses.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

21%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

7%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "delicate figures" is a descriptive noun phrase used to depict intricate and fragile forms, commonly found in art, design, and scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for formal writing, albeit with relatively uncommon usage. When writing, remember to use "delicate figures" to describe visual attributes of tangible figures and don't overuse it in non-visual contexts. Consider alternatives like "fragile forms" or "intricate shapes" for variety and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fragile forms

Focuses on the breakability or fragility of the figures, rather than their intricate nature.

intricate shapes

Emphasizes the complexity and detailed nature of the figures' forms.

graceful forms

Highlights the elegance and fluidity of the figures.

fine figurines

Refers specifically to small, detailed sculptures or models.

refined shapes

Suggests a level of sophistication and careful crafting in the figures' design.

elegant silhouettes

Emphasizes the outline and form of the figures, suggesting a sleek and stylish aesthetic.

exquisite designs

Highlights the beauty and high quality of the figures' design and craftsmanship.

ethereal forms

Focuses on the light, airy, and almost otherworldly quality of the figures.

dainty forms

Suggests small size and prettiness in the figures.

detailed depictions

Emphasizes the high level of detail and accuracy in the representation of the figures.

FAQs

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

You can use "delicate figures" to describe intricate and finely crafted forms in art, design, or nature. For example, "The porcelain dolls featured "delicate figures" and hand-painted details."

What are some alternatives to "delicate figures"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "fragile forms", "intricate shapes", or "graceful forms" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "delicate figures" in formal writing?

Yes, "delicate figures" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing art, design, or historical artifacts where precise and descriptive language is valued.

Can "delicate figures" refer to people?

While less common, "delicate figures" can describe people, typically emphasizing their slight build or graceful movements. However, be mindful of potential misinterpretations. It's usually clearer to use alternatives like "slender build" or "graceful form".