delicacy Definition
- 1the quality of being delicate, especially in the sense of being rare, expensive, or difficult to obtain
- 2a choice or expensive food item, often one that is rare or exotic
- 3sensitivity in dealing with others' feelings or a difficult situation
Using delicacy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "delicacy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Caviar is considered a delicacy in many cultures.
Example
The restaurant's menu features a variety of seafood delicacies.
Example
He handled the situation with great delicacy and tact.
Example
The artist's paintings are known for their delicacy of detail.
delicacy Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for delicacy
Antonyms for delicacy
Idioms Using delicacy
to treat someone or something very delicately or carefully, often due to its fragility or sensitivity
Example
The antique vase was so delicate that we had to handle it with kid gloves.
to be very careful and sensitive in one's actions or words, often due to a tense or difficult situation
Example
After their argument, he felt like he was walking on eggshells around her.
Example
Winning the award was a real feather in his cap.
Phrases with delicacy
a lightness and precision in handling or creating something, often used in reference to art or music
Example
The pianist's playing was marked by a delicacy of touch that captivated the audience.
Example
The wine had a delicacy of flavor that made it a favorite among connoisseurs.
a sensitivity and empathy towards others' emotions, often used in reference to interpersonal relationships
Example
She showed great delicacy of feeling in her interactions with her grieving friend.
Origins of delicacy
from Latin 'delicatus', meaning 'giving pleasure, delightful'
Summary: delicacy in Brief
The term 'delicacy' [ˈdɛlɪkəsi] refers to the quality of being rare, expensive, or difficult to obtain, as well as a choice or expensive food item. It can also denote sensitivity in dealing with others' feelings or a difficult situation, as in 'He handled the situation with great delicacy and tact.' 'Delicacy' extends into phrases like 'delicacy of touch,' and idioms like 'handle with kid gloves,' denoting the need for care and sensitivity.