delicate frame

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delicate frame" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a slender or fragile physical build, often implying gracefulness or vulnerability. Example: "She moved with such elegance, her delicate frame swaying gently with each step."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Morph is still spineless, with no armature to support his delicate frame.

Independent

He had a slight body, and his painted head appeared too big for his delicate frame.

The New Yorker

It was, she said, "wonderful", a "delicate frame around which a first love could blossom".

The Times

She has a delicate frame, brown hair that falls to her jaw, and big brown eyes.

The New Yorker

I saw Raif's delicate frame from behind, in the middle of a big crowd of people.

The Guardian

There's nary a scratch on her delicate frame or a bugle bead dislodged from her evening attire.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

He's the definition of a local legend, a mysterious, indefinable individual who's spent the majority of his life walking around the North adorned in a robe and sandals, his delicate, frail frame looking like a hastily constructed scarecrow made flesh.

Vice

Ms. Ricci and Ms. Gross are similarly well matched with their delicate frames and finely chiseled beauty.

The New York Times

Seattle's sawmills and shipyards grew fat on logs trucked east from Forks, and when William Boeing built his first planes, their delicate frames were fashioned by yacht builders out of Peninsula spruce.

The New York Times

People with a lot of Vata energy are likely to be thin with delicate frames and prone to dry skin and light sleep.

Huffington Post

Third is Rogier van der Weyden's luxuriously austere "Portrait of a Lady" of around 1460, her delicate face framed by white veils in a shape reminiscent of a sphinx.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "delicate frame" to describe a person, consider the context to ensure it doesn't come across as insensitive or objectifying. Focus on the elegance or resilience that might accompany the description.

Common error

Avoid using "delicate frame" in contexts where it sensationalizes vulnerability, particularly when reporting on sensitive issues. Opt for neutral descriptions unless the physical description is crucial and respectful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delicate frame" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying a noun (usually referring to a person or sometimes an object). It highlights the slenderness or slightness of the structure being described. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "delicate frame" is a descriptive phrase used to convey slenderness or slightness, often with an implication of fragility or elegance. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts. While generally neutral, careful consideration should be given to the context to avoid insensitive usage. Alternatives like "slight build" or "slender figure" may be appropriate depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

light frame

Highlights the lack of bulk and weight in the body.

slight build

Focuses on the smallness and slenderness of the physique.

thin build

Simple and direct way of indicating a slender body type.

frail physique

Emphasizes the weakness and vulnerability of the body.

slender figure

Highlights the graceful and thin appearance of the body.

petite form

Indicates smallness and daintiness in overall body size.

fragile constitution

Refers to the delicate health and physical condition of a person.

dainty physique

Suggests elegance and delicacy in physical appearance.

willowy figure

Implies a tall, slender, and graceful appearance.

slight stature

Emphasizes the shortness and smallness of the body.

FAQs

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

You can use "delicate frame" to describe someone's physique, such as "She had a "delicate frame" that belied her inner strength".

What are some alternatives to "delicate frame"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "slight build", "slender figure", or "petite form".

Is it appropriate to describe someone as having a "delicate frame"?

It depends on the context and your intent. It's generally acceptable if used to describe someone's physical appearance in a neutral or appreciative way. However, avoid using it in a way that could be perceived as demeaning or objectifying.

What is the difference between "delicate frame" and "fragile build"?

"Delicate frame" often implies a sense of grace or elegance, while "fragile build" emphasizes physical weakness or vulnerability.