such a delicacy

USAGE SUMMARY

"such a delicacy" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is often used to express admiration, surprise, or approval for something, usually food. For example, "The chocolate cake was such a delicacy, it melted in my mouth!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Van Gaal's future should not be decided on such a delicacy as Mata, of course.

The Guardian - Sport

And if it later sticks to my hips, enjoying such a delicacy was definitely worthwhile.

The New York Times

Squirrel gravy is such a delicacy in Appalachia that there is a RoadKill Cook-off each year in the hollows of West Virginia.

The New York Times

"It's very difficult to convince my neighbors not to kill civets because they're considered such a delicacy here," the father said.

The New York Times

She arranges the flowers in vases for the six classrooms, one for each grade, but such a delicacy rarely lasts beyond the first period.

The New Yorker

While I would probably no longer eat such a delicacy, my sister (name withheld) would probably not even admit to having partaken with me in such high cuisine.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The fishmongers were happy to give us carp, whitefish, and pike, but I had no idea how Helen, African-American, a good, churchgoing Christian, would manage with making such a Jewish delicacy.

The New Yorker

Although it's possible to buy farmed wild boar elsewhere throughout the year, it is the rarity and superior flavour of authentic wild boar that makes it such a prized delicacy, from butchers and farmers' markets in the areas where the animals roam.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

These super spicy prawns will warm you right up on a cold winters night and there is nowhere better to enjoy such a delicious delicacy than at Chilli Cool Restaurant.

Huffington Post

It would even give Richard Serra's steel enormities a run for their money: not least because, for all its size, the whale has such an unexpected delicacy.

The Guardian - Arts

By Russell Maloney The New Yorker, January 29 , 1944 P. 13A matron called her grocery store to ask if they had such-and-such delicacy in stock and was told that the war had made it very scarce.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "such a delicacy" to express appreciation for something that is not only delicious but also perhaps rare or unique. It adds a touch of sophistication to your descriptions.

Common error

Avoid using "such a delicacy" too frequently, as it can sound repetitive or insincere. Opt for varied language to describe your enjoyment of different things.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a delicacy" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It intensifies the noun, indicating that something is particularly pleasing, refined, or rare. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Lifestyle

21%

Arts

14%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "such a delicacy" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that expresses appreciation or admiration, often for something refined or rare. While not extremely common, it appears across a range of sources, particularly in news, lifestyle, and arts contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. When using this phrase, be mindful of overuse and consider variations like "such a treat" or "so exquisite" to maintain freshness in your writing. The phrase can apply both to food and to more abstract concepts, such as art or experiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

such a treat

Emphasizes the enjoyable aspect, shifting from rarity to pleasure.

such a delight

Highlights the pleasurable and satisfying nature of something.

so exquisite

Focuses on the refined and delicate quality of the item.

a real treasure

Conveys the idea of something valuable and cherished.

an absolute pleasure

Emphasizes the delightful experience associated with something.

a true indulgence

Highlights the luxurious and self-gratifying nature of the item.

remarkably fine

Focuses on the high quality and refined nature of something.

exceptionally good

A general statement emphasizing the superior quality.

a special item

Emphasizes the uniqueness and rarity of the item.

highly prized

Indicates that something is valued and esteemed.

FAQs

How can I use "such a delicacy" in a sentence?

You can use "such a delicacy" to describe food, art, or experiences that are particularly pleasing or refined. For example, "The sushi was such a delicacy, I savored every bite."

What phrases are similar to "such a delicacy"?

Similar phrases include "such a treat", "such a delight", or "so exquisite", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it appropriate to use "such a delicacy" in formal writing?

While generally appropriate, consider the context. In very formal writing, more precise or descriptive language might be preferable. However, in most cases, "such a delicacy" is acceptable.

Can "such a delicacy" be used for things other than food?

Yes, "such a delicacy" can be used metaphorically to describe anything that is refined, pleasurable, or rare. For instance, "Her piano playing was such a delicacy."