very sensitive matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very sensitive matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic that requires careful handling due to its delicate nature or potential emotional impact. Example: "We need to address the very sensitive matter of employee layoffs in our upcoming meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

But this is a very sensitive matter.

The Guardian

"This is a very sensitive matter and nothing more can be divulged at this stage," Officer Bhagat said.

The New York Times

The memorandum said the treatment of the black Seminoles was "a very sensitive matter" and hinted that an effort to exclude them might draw resistance in Congress.

The New York Times

"This is a very sensitive matter and we cannot allow any interference with the asylum procedures", said a spokeswoman for the immigration desk.

The Guardian

"This is a very sensitive matter, and everyone's role in preventing StarLink corn from entering unapproved channels is critical," John Wichtrich, vice president and general manager of Aventis CropScience, wrote to elevator operators.

The New York Times

Here is an excerpt: "It is recognised that it is a very sensitive matter and the club is in a difficult position, but associations like ours with a very long and venerable history have strengths which are derived from that history.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Nevertheless, as the court will note in its review of the documents in question, they do concern very sensitive matters, they do concern ongoing investigations of compelling significance".

The New York Times

Two instances do not make a trend, but Haley's deftness in dealing with very sensitive matters — and especially ones that could alienate the base and/or Trump — is a skill she has demonstrated repeatedly.

The Washington Post

"In my 20 years of doing oversight work," Bromwich noted in one footnote, "I have never before had the entity over which I was exercising oversight unilaterally dictate who could be interviewed, even in those instances in which I have dealt with very sensitive matters".

The New Yorker

Racism and sexism are very sensitive matters that include a history and heritage that neither should be forgotten or reclaimed.

Huffington Post

"It's a very sensitive issue".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When addressing a "very sensitive matter", prioritize clear and respectful communication. Acknowledge the potential impact on others and use neutral language to avoid escalating tensions.

Common error

Avoid using overly vague language when discussing a "very sensitive matter". While discretion is important, ensure that the core issue is clearly communicated to prevent misunderstandings and maintain transparency where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very sensitive matter" functions as a noun phrase, where "very sensitive" modifies the noun "matter". It highlights the delicate and potentially problematic nature of a particular issue. As indicated by Ludwig, this phrase is deemed grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "very sensitive matter" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to denote topics requiring careful and thoughtful consideration. As affirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable. Predominantly found in news and media, but also present in scientific and formal business contexts, it signals the potential for emotional distress or ethical complexities. When using this phrase, prioritize clear, respectful communication and acknowledge the potential impact on others to avoid misunderstandings. Although the frequency is uncommon, its presence in authoritative sources suggests its appropriateness in diverse settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly delicate issue

Emphasizes the fragility and need for careful handling of the issue.

extremely touchy subject

Highlights the potential for causing offense or emotional upset.

sensitive topic

A more general term for a subject that requires careful consideration.

delicate situation

Refers to a scenario requiring careful navigation to avoid problems.

deeply personal subject

Focuses on the private and intimate nature of the matter.

tricky situation

Highlights the challenging nature of the circumstances.

confidential issue

Stresses the importance of maintaining secrecy.

problematic area

Focuses on the difficulties and potential issues associated with the subject.

thorny question

Emphasizes the complexity and difficulty in resolving the issue.

precarious situation

Stresses the instability and potential for negative consequences.

FAQs

How can I introduce a "very sensitive matter" in a meeting?

You can start by acknowledging the delicate nature of the topic and emphasizing the need for respectful dialogue. For instance, you could say, "I need to bring up a "very sensitive matter" that requires our careful attention and understanding."

What are some synonyms for "very sensitive matter"?

Alternatives include "highly delicate issue", "extremely touchy subject", or "confidential issue", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "very sensitive matter"?

Use this phrase when addressing topics that could cause emotional distress, offense, or require discretion. It's suitable for discussions involving personal information, ethical dilemmas, or potentially controversial subjects.

How does "very sensitive matter" differ from "very difficult matter"?

"Very sensitive matter" implies a need for caution due to potential emotional or ethical concerns, while "very difficult matter" suggests a challenge that requires significant effort or skill to resolve. Sensitivity focuses on people's feelings while difficulty focuses on the complexity of the problem.