delicate skill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delicate skill" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a skill that requires precision, care, or finesse, often in contexts such as art, craftsmanship, or intricate tasks. Example: "The artist demonstrated her delicate skill in painting, capturing the finest details with ease."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

It's a delicate skill, and authors like Ruth Rendell have made it into something of an art form.

The New York Times - Books

Sneery types, then and now, called it Laura Ashley cinema, but that's to demean its delicate skill.

The Guardian - Film

It's a specialized, delicate skill, more common among British than American stars, and part of the highly satisfying spectator sport of watching expert performers juggle jeweled words.

The New York Times

Mr. Kasprzak is one of 10 dancers in "Revolution," a show that improbably combines the delicate skill of tap-dancing with the raucous sound of live rock.

The New York Times - Arts

Today that sadomasochistic terrain has been so well tilled that Strindberg's symbol-freighted psychodrama can register as campy melodrama unless it's performed with brute conviction and delicate skill.

The New York Times

Her camera gently forces us into intimacy with the pain of other ordinary people and makes it our own, while we, paradoxically, admire the delicate skill with which Ms. Wearing pulls the whole thing off.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Orchestrated post-Wozzeck in 1928, they called for more delicate skills.

The Guardian - Music

Revitalized and treated with the delicate skills that make all the difference between the word "seduction" in French and in English, even the clothes looked sensual and classy.

The New York Times

An evening gown, showing pink ribbons down the backbone as the model writhed on a wine red sofa, was a reminder of the designer's delicate skills.

The New York Times

A4 Circus Ensemble find some lovely moments thanks to delicate skills; a performer moves around a suspended hula hoop, paper umbrellas are set rotating on the top of another's feet.

The Guardian

But unexpectedly, delightfully, she's an environmentalist who loves the scale, ingenuity and power of engineering -- her description of the Dutch Oosterschelde Storm Surge Barrier approaches the erotic -- and appreciates the delicate skills and realistic minds of the politicians and the regional authorities who govern the water.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a skill that requires not only competence but also a gentle approach, use "delicate skill" to highlight the need for finesse and care. For instance, "performing surgery requires both knowledge and a "delicate skill"".

Common error

Avoid using "delicate skill" when describing purely technical abilities that rely more on precision or knowledge than on finesse. Instead, consider phrases like "technical expertise" or "precise execution" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delicate skill" functions as a noun phrase, where "delicate" is an adjective modifying the noun "skill". It describes a particular quality of the skill, emphasizing its need for precision and care. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Arts

20%

Less common in

Books

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "delicate skill" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes an ability requiring precision, care, and finesse. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and common usage. While the phrase is not overly common, it appears frequently in news, media, science, and arts contexts. It serves to emphasize the need for a gentle and careful approach in executing a task, rather than just competence. Related phrases include "refined ability" and "subtle expertise". When using "delicate skill", it's best to reserve it for situations where finesse is truly essential, avoiding overuse in purely technical contexts. Understanding its nuances helps ensure effective communication about specialized abilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

refined ability

Emphasizes the high level of quality and sophistication of the skill.

masterful technique

Indicates a high level of proficiency and control in the skill.

subtle expertise

Highlights the understated and nuanced nature of the skill.

artful precision

Combines creativity and accuracy in the performance of the skill.

exquisite talent

Emphasizes the exceptional quality and beauty of the skill.

precise craftsmanship

Focuses on the accuracy and detail-oriented aspect of the skill, especially in a craft or trade.

expert finesse

Highlights the graceful and skillful execution of a task.

fine art

Highlights how a skill can be elevated to artistic expression.

sensitive touch

Emphasizes the need for careful and gentle handling in the execution of the skill.

adept handling

Stresses the competence and skill in managing something with care.

FAQs

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

You can use "delicate skill" to describe an ability that requires precision, care, and finesse. For example, "The surgeon's "delicate skill" saved the patient's life" or "The artist's "delicate skill" was evident in the intricate details of the painting".

What are some alternatives to "delicate skill"?

Alternatives to "delicate skill" include "refined ability", "subtle expertise", and "precise craftsmanship", depending on the context.

In what contexts is "delicate skill" most appropriate?

"Delicate skill" is most appropriate in contexts where the ability involves not only competence but also a gentle and careful approach, such as surgery, artistry, or diplomacy.

Is "delicate skill" formal or informal?

"Delicate skill" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it is often found in more descriptive or appreciative writing, regardless of the overall formality.