Learn how to use the comparative “more delicate” and superlative “most delicate” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “delicate”?

The comparative form of “delicate” is “more delicate”.

Example

The porcelain vase is more delicate than the ceramic one.

Example

Her touch was more delicate than a feather.

What is the superlative form of “delicate”?

The superlative form of “delicate” is “most delicate”.

Example

Among all the flowers, the orchid is the most delicate.

Example

Her voice was the most delicate I've ever heard.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are used with "delicate" to form the comparatives and superlatives. The forms "more delicate" and "most delicate" are commonly used to indicate a higher degree of delicacy.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Delicate" follows the regular pattern of using "more" and "most" for forming comparatives and superlatives.

Expressions with similar meanings to “more delicate”

more fragile

Used to describe something that is more easily broken or damaged.

Example

The glass sculpture is more fragile than the metal sculpture.

more dainty

Used to indicate something that is more delicate or elegant in appearance.

Example

The lace dress is more dainty than the denim dress.

Expressions with similar meanings to “most delicate”

most fragile

Used to describe something that is the most easily broken or damaged.

Example

The antique china is the most fragile item in the collection.

most dainty

Used to indicate something that is the most delicate or elegant in appearance.

Example

The diamond necklace is the most dainty piece of jewelry she owns.

Using than with comparative “more delicate”

When using the comparative form "more delicate" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The porcelain vase is more delicate than the ceramic one." Here, "than" is used to show that the level of delicacy in the porcelain vase is higher than the level of delicacy in the ceramic vase.

How can I use this expression in context?

“more delicate” and “most delicate” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Objects

  The crystal chandelier is more delicate than the metal one.

  The crystal chandelier is more delicate than the metal one.

• 2. Touch

  Her fingers were the most delicate I've ever felt.

  Her fingers were the most delicate I've ever felt.

• 3. Flowers

  The rose is more delicate than the sunflower.

  The rose is more delicate than the sunflower.

• 4. Sounds

  The music box played the most delicate melody.

  The music box played the most delicate melody.

Related idioms and phrases

Handle with kid gloves

To handle someone or something very delicately or cautiously.

Example

You need to handle the fragile items with kid gloves.

Walking on eggshells

To act very carefully and cautiously in order to avoid causing offense or problems.

Example

I feel like I'm walking on eggshells around her.