rather delicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rather 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 situation is rather delicate, and we must approach it with caution to avoid any misunderstandings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That makes her task rather delicate.

The Economist

All have rather delicate sharp-pointed bills for finches.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The pushy hosta smothered the rather delicate astilbe.

The New York Times

I think I am rather delicate and subtle".

The Guardian

This is a rather delicate procedure with VRLA batteries that use AGM or gelled electrolyte.

Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid Batteries

The pies here are small and rather delicate; a hungry person could polish one off.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, Lots of Trouble No 2 has a rather delicate Citroen gearbox.

The Economist

He was a rather delicate, a very shy man, with very sophisticated perceptions.

The New Yorker

In the process of the finite dimensional reduction, all estimates for this particular construction become rather delicate.

Journal of Functional Analysis

She is small, looks rather delicate, and speaks in a fragile, high-pitched timbre.

The New Yorker

He said he was hoping to discuss something rather delicate with me, something he'd rather not mention over the phone.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts or situations, use "rather delicate" to convey the need for careful consideration and tact. For example, "The negotiations are at a rather delicate stage."

Common error

Avoid using "rather delicate" excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and technical terms that accurately reflect the specific nuance you wish to convey. For example, instead of saying "the experiment requires a rather delicate setup", specify "the experiment requires precise calibration".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rather delicate" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun, indicating a quality of fragility, sensitivity, or requiring careful handling. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples where it describes physical objects, procedures, or abstract situations needing tact and caution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

31%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rather delicate" is a commonly used adjectival phrase that signifies something requiring careful handling due to its fragility or sensitivity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, including News & Media and Science. While alternatives like ""quite fragile"" and ""somewhat sensitive"" exist, "rather delicate" strikes a balance between formality and accessibility, making it suitable for various writing styles. However, it's advisable to use more precise terms in formal writing to enhance clarity. The phrase serves as a useful tool for emphasizing the need for caution and tact in different situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quite fragile

Emphasizes the easiness with which something can be broken or damaged. It is a more direct synonym focusing on physical fragility.

kind of fragile

A more conversational synonym for emphasizing the sensitive nature of something.

quite sensitive

Highlights how easily something is affected, either physically or emotionally.

somewhat sensitive

Highlights the susceptibility of something to external influences or changes. Centers on responsiveness rather than fragility.

fairly subtle

Indicates a quality that is not immediately obvious or easily perceived, suggesting a need for careful observation.

slightly precarious

Implies a state of instability or uncertainty, where careful management is required to avoid negative outcomes.

moderately frail

Suggests a state of physical weakness or vulnerability, needing protection from harm or damage.

somewhat unstable

Highlights that a thing is prone to changes, failure, or collapse; requires care to maintain equilibrium.

reasonably intricate

Focuses on the complexity of something, implying that careful attention is needed to understand or manage it.

a bit touchy

Indicates sensitivity in terms of emotional or interpersonal contexts, requiring careful handling to avoid offense or conflict.

FAQs

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

You can use "rather delicate" to describe something that requires careful handling or is easily affected. For instance, "The antique vase is "rather delicate" and must be handled with care" or "The political situation is "rather delicate", requiring a cautious approach".

What are some alternatives to "rather delicate"?

Alternatives to "rather delicate" include "quite fragile", "somewhat sensitive", or "fairly subtle", depending on the context. Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the original phrase.

Is it okay to use "rather delicate" in formal writing?

While "rather delicate" is grammatically correct, it may sound less formal. In academic or professional contexts, consider more precise alternatives that convey the specific nuance you intend.

What is the difference between "rather delicate" and "very delicate"?

"Rather delicate" suggests a moderate degree of fragility or sensitivity, while "very delicate" implies a higher degree. The choice depends on the intensity you want to convey.