delicate person

USAGE SUMMARY

'delicate person' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is sensitive, mild, or fragile. For example, "He was a really gentle and delicate person, so it was heartbreaking when he passed away."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"I was to go with her out into the desert to show her something about camels and here was this delicate person," said the writer last year.

The Guardian - Film

A polished courtier, Villiers earned the nickname "Tiger" among his party for his vehement support of the king; although as Fanny Burney observed, his "remarkably slim, slight and delicate person" did not match the nickname.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"I always thought of Ichabod as a very delicate, fragile person who was maybe a little too in touch with his feminine side, like a frightened little girl," Depp explained.

Wikipedia

In this article a method is set out which can be at once systematic and naturalistic in its handling of a delicate person-centred therapy.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

As a not-delicate person, who is a little bit claustrophobic anyways, it was not my cup of tea.

Princeton University

"He's a very delicate, intelligent person.

The Guardian - Film

While many male stars turn out to be disappointingly delicate in person, Mr. MacFadyen is 6 feet 3 inches of brawn.

The New York Times

through this delicate soul.

Huffington Post

The best way to do so is with a delicate, in-person conversation.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, what really galled him was how it seemed to be the game of Washington "to make the strife of politics so fierce and brutal, and so destructive of all self-respect in worthy men, that sensitive and delicate-minded persons shall be kept aloof, and they, and such as they, be left to battle out their selfish views, unchecked".

The New Yorker

The pies here are small and rather delicate; a hungry person could polish one off.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as a "delicate person", be mindful of the context and ensure your language is respectful and considerate of their sensitivity. This phrase can carry connotations of vulnerability, so use it thoughtfully.

Common error

Avoid using "delicate person" as a simplistic label. Acknowledge the multifaceted nature of individuals by providing richer detail and avoiding generalizations. Every person is different, and a more specific description can prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delicate person" functions primarily as a descriptive term. It's used to attribute a quality (delicacy) to a noun (person), indicating that the individual possesses a certain level of sensitivity, fragility, or gentleness. Ludwig AI confirms this usage aligns with standard English grammar.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

23%

Science

11%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "delicate person" is a common and generally accepted way to describe someone who is sensitive, fragile, or easily hurt. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While it appears most frequently in News & Media, it's used across a range of contexts. When using this phrase, remember to be mindful of the connotations and to avoid generalizations. Consider alternatives like "sensitive individual" or "fragile soul" depending on the specific context. Ultimately, the phrase serves to communicate a specific aspect of someone's character, indicating a need for consideration and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly sensitive person

A more technical term for someone with heightened sensory processing sensitivity.

sensitive individual

Emphasizes the person's high level of emotional or sensory awareness.

fragile soul

Highlights the person's vulnerability and emotional tenderness.

gentle soul

Focuses on the person's kind and compassionate nature.

tender-hearted person

Stresses the person's capacity for empathy and emotional responsiveness.

compassionate individual

Highlights the person's deep concern for others' suffering.

vulnerable person

Directly indicates the person's susceptibility to harm or distress.

easily hurt person

Emphasizes the person's proneness to emotional pain.

thin-skinned individual

Describes someone who is very sensitive to criticism or slights.

impressionable person

Highlights the person's tendency to be easily influenced by others.

FAQs

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

You can use "delicate person" to describe someone who is easily hurt or sensitive. For example, "She's a very delicate person, so be careful with your words."

What are some alternatives to saying "delicate person"?

Depending on the context, you could use "sensitive individual", "fragile soul", or "tender-hearted person" as alternatives.

Is it appropriate to describe someone as a "delicate person"?

It can be appropriate, but be mindful of the context and the person you're describing. Ensure the term is used respectfully and doesn't come across as condescending or dismissive.

What does it mean to be a "highly sensitive person"?

A "highly sensitive person" is someone who processes sensory data more deeply and intensely. This can lead to heightened emotional responses and greater awareness of subtleties in their environment.