delicate workings

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delicate workings" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe intricate or sensitive processes, mechanisms, or systems that require careful handling or consideration. Example: "The delicate workings of the clock were fascinating, revealing the intricate gears and springs that kept time so precisely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In contrast, Mr. Boehner has spent his career resisting earmarks, and he and his fellow Republican leaders have not sat on the Appropriations Committee, freeing them to push for major changes but leaving some wondering if they understand the panel's delicate workings enough to avoid mistakes that could paralyze the spending process.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

This is delicate work.

The New York Times

It is delicate work.

The New York Times

It's delicate work.

Forbes

The orchestra suffused its seething and often delicate inner workings with luxurious sound.

The New York Times - Arts

iFixit has torn up the new iMac to reveal the delicate inner workings of both the machine and its attendant Magic Mouse.

TechCrunch

God was the cosmic clockmaker and scientists were merely examining the delicate inner workings of His design.

Huffington Post

At a stockholders meeting in 1998, Mr. Edelman's group presented a list of 52 questions about the company's inner workings, including delicate matters like whether family members used company apartments rent-free or held fictitious jobs.

The New York Times

He adored the way clockmakers sometimes placed delicate surprises in the workings of a clock: in one Harvard timepiece, he discovered a tiny brass horse one and a quarter inches long, with a boy on its back.

The New York Times

His brilliantly effective technique included a strong, energising elbow movement, a subtle screwing of the wrist, delicate fingers and strange workings of the tongue inside a closed mouth, but he never slashed.

The Guardian - Music

Do we really understand the workings of that delicate machine any better than our forebears did?

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing systems or processes that are easily disrupted, use "delicate workings" to emphasize the need for careful management.

Common error

Avoid using "delicate workings" to describe straightforward tasks. This phrase is best reserved for situations involving complexity and sensitivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delicate workings" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to the internal components or processes of a system, emphasizing their sensitivity and potential for disruption as noted by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "delicate workings" is a noun phrase used to describe intricate and sensitive systems or processes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It is commonly found in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business contexts, highlighting its appropriateness for discussing complex interdependencies. When using this phrase, remember to reserve it for contexts where sensitivity and complexity are key. Consider alternatives such as "intricate mechanisms" or "sensitive processes" to best fit the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intricate mechanisms

Focuses on the complexity and detailed nature of the workings.

sensitive processes

Emphasizes the careful handling required due to the sensitivity of the processes involved.

subtle mechanisms

Highlights the understated or nuanced nature of the workings.

fine operations

Refers to the precise and careful manner in which the workings function.

complex interactions

Focuses on the multiple elements and their relationships within the workings.

detailed systems

Highlights the comprehensive and elaborate nature of the workings.

precise movements

Emphasizes the accuracy and exactness of the workings.

fragile arrangements

Highlights the vulnerability and careful setup of the workings.

refined procedures

Refers to the sophisticated and polished nature of the workings.

critical functions

Focuses on the essential and indispensable nature of the workings.

FAQs

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

You can use "delicate workings" to describe intricate or sensitive processes. For example, "The success of the negotiation depended on understanding the "delicate workings" of international diplomacy."

What are some alternatives to "delicate workings"?

Alternatives include "intricate mechanisms", "sensitive processes", or "subtle mechanisms", depending on the context.

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

Yes, "delicate workings" is suitable for formal writing when describing complex systems or processes that require careful handling. However, ensure it aligns with the tone and register of your writing.

What kind of systems can be described as having "delicate workings"?

Systems with "delicate workings" often involve intricate interdependencies where small changes can have significant impacts. Examples include economic systems, political negotiations, and complex machinery.