delicate timing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delicate timing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a situation where precise timing is crucial, often in contexts involving sensitivity or careful coordination. Example: "The success of the project depended on delicate timing, as we needed to launch the product just before the holiday season."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Because of that delicate timing, Ms. Spitzer of Corcoran said she could not discuss the discount they were being offered.

The New York Times

For a man to disclose that he is H.I.V. positive, Dr. Odets said, involves delicate timing and complicated emotions -- including the fear or being rejected or appearing weak.

The New York Times

This year, he's shown a bit more nuance with the ball in his hands, suggesting he's picked up a thing or two from Paul in to the delicate timing of probing and compromising a defense without losing control.

The New York Times

His routine, jam-packed with skills like Kovacs (a double flip over the bar, his body kept straight) and Tkatchev (swinging towards the ceiling, releasing the bar so his whole body goes up and over the bar before he grabs it on the other side) doesn't depend on his strength so much as his sense of the delicate timing the tap requires.

The New Yorker

However, when and how to pull back on stimulus measures, without dampening growth, involves delicate timing and decision-making.

Forbes

The visual effect of the piece required delicate timing and many months of studying the way that light behaves on the farm at sunset.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

But the timing of the vote had raised alarm among some lawmakers who contended it would be viewed in Iran as a blatantly hostile signal at a delicate time.

The New York Times

(The languid Gypsy women and their delicate comic timing are not to be missed in "Esmeralda").

The New York Times

Marianela Nuñez, who danced Sylvia on opening night, has a lively presence and delicate musical timing – I love the way the last stretch of her fingertips will round off a phrase.

Independent

The delicate mechanism of timing and power seemed locked, shockproof, in some case outside his body.

The New Yorker

The situation is especially delicate, because the timing of one appointment could affect the outcome of the other negotiation.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "delicate timing", consider the specific context to ensure that the phrase accurately conveys the need for precision and sensitivity. For instance, in negotiations or critical procedures, emphasize the importance of acting at the right moment to achieve the desired outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "delicate timing" in situations where the timing isn't particularly sensitive or critical. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound overly dramatic or exaggerated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delicate timing" primarily functions as a noun phrase where "delicate" modifies "timing". It describes situations where the specific moment something occurs is crucial and requires careful consideration. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through various examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "delicate timing" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize the critical importance of precision and sensitivity in the execution of events. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, reflecting its versatility. While not overly common, it effectively conveys the need for careful consideration of when something occurs. For alternative phrasing, consider "sensitive timing" or "precise timing" depending on the desired nuance. When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context to accurately convey the criticality of the moment and avoid overuse in less sensitive situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sensitive timing

Emphasizes the need for careful consideration due to potential consequences.

precise timing

Focuses on the exactness and accuracy required.

critical juncture

Highlights the decisiveness and importance of the moment.

strategic moment

Stresses the planning and purpose behind the timing.

opportune moment

Suggests the timing is particularly favorable for a specific outcome.

careful scheduling

Highlights the planning and organization involved in ensuring good timing.

tactful planning

Emphasizes the need for sensitivity and skill in arranging the timing.

well-judged moment

Focuses on the wisdom and foresight in choosing the right time.

finely tuned schedule

Highlights the detailed and precise nature of the timing arrangement.

exacting choreography

Implies a carefully planned and executed sequence of events.

FAQs

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

You can use "delicate timing" to describe situations where precision is crucial. For example, "The success of the surgery depended on "delicate timing" to avoid complications."

What are some alternatives to "delicate timing"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "sensitive timing", "precise timing", or "critical moment".

When is it appropriate to use "delicate timing"?

It's appropriate to use "delicate timing" when the success of an action or event depends on executing it at a specific, carefully chosen moment. This often applies in situations where sensitivity or coordination is key.

Is "delicate timing" interchangeable with "good timing"?

While both phrases relate to timing, "delicate timing" implies a higher level of precision and sensitivity than "good timing". "Good timing" suggests simply being opportune, while "delicate timing" indicates a need for careful execution.