it was very delicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was very delicate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is fragile, sensitive, or requires careful handling, whether it's an object, a situation, or a feeling. Example: "The artist's work was so intricate that it was very delicate, requiring special care during the exhibition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

So we were willing to go down in flames, and it was very delicate trying to get the last two seasons made at HBO.

The New York Times

"We sold Rajesh Pratap Singh very well the first time we introduced his collection because it was very delicate," said Sarah Lerfel, Colette's creative director.

The New York Times

It was very delicate".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's very delicate and complex".

The New York Times

"It's very delicate," he said.

The New York Times

"I think it's very delicate.

The New Yorker

"But we do, so we just have to deal with it, and it's very delicate".

The New York Times

The writer explains the complexity of the situation, as it is very delicate.

The Guardian

"It is very delicate that somebody who is a very dangerous criminal is sent to a jail where it is easy to escape," he said.

The New York Times

"The book has suffered much, pages are badly burned or water-stained, so it is very delicate and rarely put on show.

The Guardian

Skye Gyngell is head chef at Petersham Nurseries, Richmond, Surrey, tel: [phone], petershamnurseries.com Lobster tagliolini with tarragon and tomatoes This is a beautiful dish: it is very delicate and it feels special.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was very delicate" to describe situations, objects, or relationships that require careful handling due to their fragility or sensitivity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "it was very delicate" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "it was tricky" or "it was sensitive" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was very delicate" functions as a descriptive statement, characterizing a situation, object, or relationship as requiring careful handling. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was very delicate" is used to describe situations, objects, or relationships that require careful handling due to their fragility or sensitivity. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable. While grammatically sound, consider context to avoid sounding overly formal. Alternatives include phrases like "it was highly sensitive" or "it was quite fragile". Predominantly found in news and media, this phrase serves to underscore the need for caution and thoughtful action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was highly sensitive

Emphasizes the sensitivity and potential for disruption or harm.

it was extremely sensitive

Intensifies the degree of sensitivity, suggesting a heightened awareness or vulnerability.

it was quite fragile

Highlights the physical or metaphorical fragility of something.

it was terribly sensitive

Implies a strong emotional or reactive quality.

it was unusually fragile

Highlights the unexpected or surprising nature of the fragility.

it was remarkably fragile

Stresses the noteworthy extent of the fragility.

it was incredibly fragile

Underscores the extreme vulnerability or lack of resilience.

it was rather precarious

Indicates a situation of instability or uncertainty.

it was unbelievably fragile

Emphasizes the surprising nature of the fragility, almost to a point of disbelief.

it was awfully sensitive

Suggests an unpleasant or undesirable level of sensitivity.

FAQs

How can I use "it was very delicate" in a sentence?

Use "it was very delicate" to describe a situation, object, or subject that requires careful handling or is easily damaged. For example, "Negotiating the peace treaty "it was very delicate" because any misstep could lead to renewed conflict."

What can I say instead of "it was very delicate"?

You can use alternatives like "it was highly sensitive", "it was quite fragile", or "it was extremely sensitive" depending on the context.

Is "it was very delicate" formal or informal?

"It was very delicate" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. In very informal settings, consider alternatives like "it was tricky" or "it was sensitive".

What's the difference between "it was delicate" and "it was very delicate"?

Adding "very" intensifies the degree of delicacy or sensitivity. "It was delicate" implies a general level of care is needed, while ""it was very delicate"" emphasizes that extreme caution is required.