slightly delicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly delicate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is somewhat fragile or sensitive in nature. Example: "The artist's work is slightly delicate, requiring careful handling during the exhibition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I suspect that M. has made a slightly delicate situation worse by putting off sharing her news with her friend.

The New York Times

When I was in the military, people used to tell the story about a guy who fucked a slightly delicate jevita, and she actually had a heart attack.

Vice

If I played someone who has an affair, I think a reporter would probably think twice before asking, 'Ooh, how many affairs have you had?' It would be a slightly delicate area.

Huffington Post

In appearance, background, and intellectual outlook he is a grim antithesis to all the suave, slightly delicate young men who for generations have sat on the Union rostrum ... ...... Sophie Carson had accompanied Lewis to Oxford, and they wed August 15 , 1935 shortly after their return.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

You may be wondering: If lasers do well against things slightly more delicate than tanks, what about stuff that's way more delicate than tanks — like people in general, or the human eye in particular?

Vice

The result is similar to fried pork rinds: equally moreish and delicious, but with a slightly more delicate crunch.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Domingo, who plays Strand, is slightly more delicate: "I love the idea that people are that …" He takes a moment to find the word, "spirited".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Sovena USA introduced Olivari — a blend of many Mediterranean oils that it describes as "natural and fresh olive oil, with a fruity and slightly sweet delicate aroma" in the American market in 2009.

The New York Times

The case of binary connectives ∨ and ∧ is slightly more delicate.

Journal of Cloud Computing

"I wanted to make it slightly more delicate and have more texture.

BBC

As their friendship progresses, then the light gets slightly more delicate.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts or situations, use "slightly delicate" to convey a nuanced sense of fragility or sensitivity without overstating the issue. This can be particularly useful in professional communication to avoid alarmist language.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly delicate" excessively in formal reports or academic papers. While it can be appropriate, overuse may make your writing sound less authoritative. Opt for more precise and descriptive language when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly delicate" functions primarily as a modifier, specifically an adjective phrase, that qualifies a noun. It indicates a degree of fragility or sensitivity. Ludwig AI shows it can be used to describe situations, objects, or even relationships.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "slightly delicate" is a grammatically correct and usable adjective phrase that conveys a moderate degree of fragility or sensitivity. Ludwig AI indicates its use in describing various contexts, ranging from physical objects to abstract situations. While not overly common, it is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, though care should be taken to avoid overuse in highly formal contexts. Alternatives such as ""somewhat fragile"" or ""a bit sensitive"" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat fragile

Emphasizes the physical vulnerability or breakability of something.

a bit sensitive

Focuses on the potential for emotional or physical reactivity.

mildly precarious

Highlights the instability or riskiness of a situation or object.

rather tender

Implies a need for gentle handling or care.

relatively frail

Stresses a lack of strength or resilience.

moderately subtle

Indicates a quality that is not immediately obvious or forceful.

kind of precarious

Informal way to express that something is not stable or secure

a touch fragile

Informal alternative, highlighting the ease with which it can be damaged.

somewhat precarious

Implies more instability or uncertainty than "slightly delicate".

marginally sensitive

Stresses the reactivity, but with a minimal impact

FAQs

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

You can use "slightly delicate" to describe something that requires careful handling or consideration. For instance, "The antique vase is slightly delicate and needs to be moved with care".

What is a good alternative to "slightly delicate"?

Alternatives to "slightly delicate" include "somewhat fragile", "a bit sensitive", or "mildly precarious", depending on the specific context.

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

Yes, "slightly delicate" is appropriate in formal writing, but it should be used judiciously. Overuse can diminish the impact, so consider stronger or more precise language when suitable.

What does "slightly delicate" mean?

"Slightly delicate" means something is somewhat fragile or sensitive, requiring a gentle approach or careful handling.