very delicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very 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 used very delicate brush strokes to create the intricate details of the painting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Very delicate.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's a very delicate line".

The New York Times

It's very delicate and complex".

The New York Times

"It's a very delicate situation.

Independent

"Their situation is very delicate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's very delicate," he said.

The New York Times

"They're very delicate," he said.

The New Yorker

"It becomes a very delicate balance".

The New York Times

Ego is, indeed very delicate.

The Guardian - Books

"I think it's very delicate.

The New Yorker

"It's a very delicate balance".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts like relationships or negotiations, use "very delicate" to emphasize the need for careful and thoughtful handling. For example: "The peace talks are at a very delicate stage."

Common error

Avoid using "very delicate" in highly technical or scientific contexts where more precise terms like "highly sensitive" or "finely calibrated" would be more appropriate. Using specific terminology enhances clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very delicate" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a high degree of fragility, sensitivity, or the need for careful handling. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used. Examples show it describing physical objects, situations, and even emotions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "very delicate" is a common and grammatically correct adjectival phrase used to describe something that is fragile, sensitive, or requires careful handling. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives such as ""highly fragile"" or ""extremely sensitive"" may be more appropriate in certain technical contexts, "very delicate" serves well in general usage. Remember to consider the specific context and choose the most precise term to convey your intended meaning effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly fragile

Emphasizes the physical weakness and susceptibility to damage.

exceptionally fragile

Similar to "highly fragile" but with an added emphasis on the rarity of its resilience.

exceedingly fragile

Another synonym for "highly fragile", but it emphasizes the intensity of being fragile.

distinctly fragile

Highlights the clear and obvious nature of its fragility.

extremely sensitive

Focuses on the responsiveness to external stimuli or influences.

particularly sensitive

Like "extremely sensitive", this phrase places a special emphasis on the object or matter's high sensitivity.

noticeably sensitive

Emphasizes that the sensitivity is easily observed or apparent.

remarkably fine

Highlights the exquisite and refined nature of something, implying fragility.

incredibly tender

Conveys a sense of gentleness and vulnerability.

unusually tender

Expresses that the tenderness is out of the ordinary.

FAQs

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

You can use "very delicate" to describe something that is fragile, sensitive, or requires careful handling. For example, "The antique vase is "very delicate" and must be handled with care."

What are some alternatives to "very delicate"?

Some alternatives to "very delicate" include "highly fragile", "extremely sensitive", or "remarkably fine" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "very delicate"?

It's appropriate to use "very delicate" when describing something that could be easily damaged or requires cautious handling. It's also suitable for describing situations that require tact and sensitivity.

What's the difference between "very delicate" and "very fragile"?

While both suggest vulnerability, "very fragile" typically refers to physical weakness and susceptibility to breakage. "Very delicate" can refer to both physical fragility and the need for careful handling due to sensitivity or complexity.