quite delicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite delicate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is fragile, sensitive, or requires careful handling. Example: "The artist's work is quite delicate, requiring a gentle touch to preserve its integrity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

In those days, I was quite delicate.

The New Yorker

Asparagus has a very slight pungency, a unique tang, yet paradoxically is quite delicate.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I've been told I have very thin skin and quite delicate, too.

The New York Times

Inside a clock, you've got quite delicate gongs with tonalities that are very pleasant to the ear.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"These ashes are really quite delicate, so they can't have been transported by wind or water, they would have never survived as intact pieces.

The Guardian

"The Wind," a ditty not quite delicate enough to belong to Drake, squeezed God, the soul and the devil into less than two minutes.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

The centered mind is just like a flower, it is quite soft, delicate and fragile - it's easy to knock it around at the early and intermediate stages.

WikiHow

I was recently surprised how hardy annual spinach is – to me it looked quite a delicate, soft leaf but as an experiment, I left an August sowing of 'Tetona' (Nicky's Nursery) over winter last year on the allotment, alongside 'Reddy' (Kings).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The bubble will probably be quite fragile at this point, so a delicate touch is needed.

WikiHow

Instead, it's quite a delicate thing.

The New York Times

Not quite as delicate as the others.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "quite delicate", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately reflects the degree of fragility or sensitivity. It's a versatile phrase applicable to physical objects, emotional states, or complex situations.

Common error

Avoid using "quite delicate" when describing situations or objects that are extremely fragile or sensitive. Opt for stronger adjectives like 'extremely fragile' or 'highly sensitive' to convey the appropriate intensity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite delicate" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a moderate degree of fragility, sensitivity, or complexity. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

32%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "quite delicate" is a grammatically correct and usable adjective phrase that indicates a moderate level of fragility, sensitivity, or complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While "quite delicate" is versatile and appears in contexts ranging from news and media to scientific writing, it's crucial to select the most appropriate adjective based on the specific degree of fragility or sensitivity you wish to convey. Alternatives such as "rather fragile" or "somewhat sensitive" may be more fitting in certain situations. Remember to avoid overuse in contexts demanding stronger adjectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rather fragile

Emphasizes the physical vulnerability or susceptibility to damage.

somewhat sensitive

Highlights the susceptibility to emotional or physical stimuli.

fairly precarious

Indicates instability and a high risk of collapse or failure.

a bit flimsy

Suggests a lack of strength or solidity.

slightly vulnerable

Focuses on the potential for being harmed or exploited.

reasonably subtle

Implies refinement and understated quality, often in sensory experiences.

moderately intricate

Highlights complexity and the need for careful attention to detail.

somewhat refined

Suggests elegance and sophistication, but to a limited extent.

relatively understated

Indicates a lack of emphasis or ostentation, often in design or style.

distinctly refined

Stresses a noticeable level of finesse and sophistication

FAQs

What does "quite delicate" mean?

"Quite delicate" generally means something is fragile, sensitive, or requires careful handling. The level of fragility is implied to be moderate rather than extreme.

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

You can use "quite delicate" to describe various things. For example: "The antique vase is quite delicate, so handle it with care" or "The negotiation process is quite delicate and requires careful diplomacy."

What are some alternatives to "quite delicate"?

Alternatives to "quite delicate" include "rather fragile", "somewhat sensitive", or "fairly precarious", depending on the specific context.

Is "quite delicate" formal or informal?

"Quite delicate" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or scientific writing, more precise or technical terms might be preferred.