delicacy

[ˈdɛlɪkəsi]

delicacy Definition

• 1. the quality of being delicate, especially in the sense of being rare, expensive, or difficult to obtain
• 2. a choice or expensive food item, often one that is rare or exotic
• 3. sensitivity 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

• exquisiteness
• refinement
• rarity
• daintiness
• sensitivity

Antonyms for delicacy

• coarseness
• crudeness
• insensitivity

Idioms Using delicacy

• handle with kid gloves

  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.

• walk on eggshells

  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.

• a feather in one's cap

  an achievement or honor that one can be proud of

  Example

  Winning the award was a real feather in his cap.

Phrases with delicacy

• delicacy of touch

  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.

• delicacy of flavor

  a subtle and nuanced taste, often used in reference to food or drink

  Example

  The wine had a delicacy of flavor that made it a favorite among connoisseurs.

• delicacy of feeling

  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'

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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.