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delicate
/ˈdɛlɪkət/
easily damaged or broken
Handle the antique vase with care; it's very delicate.
The vase is fragile and requires gentle handling.
general
Easily damaged or broken; fragile
The delicate fabric tore easily under pressure.
The fragile material could not withstand stress.
She has a delicate constitution and catches colds often.
Her health is fragile, making her prone to illness.
Often describes physical objects but can also refer to health, emotions, or situations requiring careful handling.
general
Requiring careful or tactful handling; sensitive
The diplomat delivered a delicate message to avoid offending anyone.
The envoy carefully crafted a sensitive statement to prevent conflict.
He approached the topic with a delicate balance of honesty and kindness.
He navigated the sensitive issue with great tact.
Used for situations, conversations, or emotions that need to be handled with care to avoid hurt or misunderstanding.
general
Fine or intricate in structure; exquisite
The artist's delicate brushstrokes created a stunning portrait.
The painter's intricate strokes produced a beautiful work of art.
Describes something with fine, detailed, or refined qualities, often in art or craftsmanship.
Collocations
delicate balancea situation needing careful managementdelicate situationa sensitive or tricky circumstancedelicate healthfragile physical conditiondelicate mattera topic requiring tact
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'delicate'
While versatile, 'delicate' can sound overly formal or poetic. Use simpler alternatives like 'fragile' or 'sensitive' in everyday speech.
Gold Rule
Physical vs. metaphorical use
Use 'delicate' for physical fragility (e.g., 'delicate glass') and 'sensitive' for emotional or situational care (e.g., 'delicate topic').
Word Origin
From Latin *delicatus* (giving pleasure, delightful), later evolving to mean 'soft, tender' in Middle English. The sense of 'easily damaged' emerged in the 17th century.
Usage Notes
Avoid using 'delicate' for people in a negative sense (e.g., 'She's too delicate' may imply fragility or weakness). Prefer 'sensitive' or 'fragile' in medical contexts.
Word Breakdown
de-
intensive prefix (from Latin)
prefix-lic-
pleasure, delight
root-ate
adjective-forming suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary