Kid gloves: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Kid gloves” mean?

"Kid gloves" means treating someone delicately or with extreme care.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The teacher handled the student's mistake with kid gloves.

Example

He always treats his elderly grandmother with kid gloves.

Example

The manager handled the difficult situation with the client using kid gloves

Is “Kid gloves” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Kid gloves” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Kid gloves” effectively in context?

You can use "Kid Gloves" to describe the act of treating someone delicately or with extreme care. It implies being cautious and considerate in one's actions towards another person. For example, if a teacher is very gentle and understanding when a student makes a mistake, you could say, 'The teacher handled the student's mistake with kid gloves.'

  • 1Education

    The teacher handled the student's mistake with kid gloves to avoid discouraging them.

  • 2Family

    He always treats his elderly grandmother with kid gloves to ensure her comfort and well-being.

  • 3Customer Service

    The manager handled the difficult situation with the client using kid gloves to maintain a positive relationship.

Similar phrases to “Kid gloves”:

Handle with care

To treat something or someone delicately and with caution

Example

The fragile package was marked 'Handle with care' to ensure it wouldn't be damaged.

Walk on eggshells

To be extremely careful and sensitive in one's actions or words

Example

She had to walk on eggshells around her boss to avoid upsetting him.

To avoid addressing a sensitive topic or to be cautious in one's actions

Example

They tiptoed around the issue to prevent any conflict.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Kid gloves” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Kid Gloves" can be traced back to the 18th century. Kid gloves were made from the skin of young goats, known as kids. These gloves were known for their softness and delicacy, and were often worn by the upper class. The phrase 'handle with kid gloves' came to mean treating someone or something with extreme care and gentleness.

Is “Kid gloves” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Kid Gloves" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone is being treated with extra care and sensitivity.

What tone does “Kid gloves” have?

"Kid Gloves" conveys a tone of gentleness and consideration. It suggests that the person or situation being described is delicate and requires special attention.

Can “Kid gloves” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Kid Gloves" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of treating someone delicately. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as professional emails or presentations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She handled the situation with kid gloves to avoid causing any offense.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to handle this with "kid gloves"!' to imply the need for caution and care.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

  • treat gently
  • handle delicately
  • be cautious
  • exercise caution
  • be considerate

Antonyms

  • disregard
  • handle roughly
  • treat harshly
  • be careless
  • be insensitive

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