easily broken or damaged, needing to be dealt with carefully or sensitively, needing careful treatment in order to be successful or accurate

Formal and Informal Expressions of delicate

In different contexts, you can replace 'delicate' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'sensitive, fragile, subtle' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'tricky, touchy, dicey' is a commonplace synonym.

delicate: Explore its Definition & Usage

delicate Definition

1easily broken or damaged
2needing to be dealt with carefully or sensitively
3needing careful treatment in order to be successful or accurate

Using delicate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "delicate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
Be careful with that vase, it's very delicate.
Example
The situation is delicate and requires a diplomatic approach.
Example
The recipe is delicate and requires precise measurements.
Example
She has a delicate constitution and can't eat spicy food.

delicate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for delicate

Antonyms for delicate

Phrases with delicate

delicate balance
a situation where different elements are in a state of equilibrium and require careful management to maintain
Example
The ecosystem of the rainforest is a delicate balance that can be easily disrupted by human activity.
delicate matter
a sensitive or difficult issue that requires careful handling
Example
The company's financial troubles are a delicate matter that the CEO is trying to address.
delicate touch
a skillful and gentle approach to a task or situation
Example
The surgeon had a delicate touch and was able to perform the procedure without causing any complications.

Origins of delicate

from Latin 'delicatus', meaning 'giving pleasure, delightful'

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Summary: delicate in Brief

The term 'delicate' [ˈdɛlɪkət] refers to something that is easily broken or damaged, requiring careful or sensitive treatment. It can also refer to something that requires precision or accuracy, such as a recipe or measurement. Examples include 'Be careful with that vase, it's very delicate,' and 'The situation is delicate and requires a diplomatic approach.' Phrases like 'delicate balance' and 'delicate matter' denote situations that require careful management or handling.