What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delicate
Example
Be careful with that vase, it's very delicate. [delicate: adjective]
Example
The negotiations were delicate and required a lot of tact. [delicate: adjective]
Example
Don't be too harsh on her, she's very delicate. [delicate: adjective]
fine
Example
This wine is really fine, it's one of the best I've ever tasted. [fine: adjective]
Example
Everything is going fine, thanks for asking. [fine: adverb]
Example
He had to pay a fine for parking in a no-parking zone. [fine: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fine is more commonly used than delicate in everyday language. Fine is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while delicate is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between delicate and fine?
Both delicate and fine can be used in formal or informal contexts. However, delicate may be more commonly used in formal contexts due to its connotations of sensitivity and fragility.
