delicate
- adjective
- /ˈdɛlɪkɪt/
- The way to present these images is, in fact, a delicate matter.
- delicate balance
- strike a delicate balance
- a delicate balancing act
And there's always sort of this delicate balance which parents have, right?
- And there's always sort of this delicate balance which parents have, right?
- You need to find that delicate balance between being present and being too available.
- Now, let me say I know of situations where though the man may be more delicate with her, he's still rough.
- Fraud is very delicate, bad check writing.
- And then once we have that, then we enter these delicate things about, you know, what can you commit?
Examples
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That's an attitude, sir, that calls for the most delicate judgement on both sides.
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That kind of strategy calls for very delicate action and very delicate judgement.
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However, notice how delicate this issue is.
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Thus a delicate political game was played.
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Well, this is a very delicate situation.
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I know this is a... delicate subject, but do you have any reason to believe that this might have something to do with your sister?
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Since it's a very delicate subject, should I take your silence as a "no comment"?
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Despite their partnership, a delicate balance of power existed between my father and Ace.
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And peace talks involve private conversations, delicate, even painful conversations.
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The artist used a delicate brush to create fine details in her painting.
Synonyms
Being very careful about small details
A subject that needs careful handling because it may cause disagreement
Hard to talk about or deal with because it may cause an argument
Being very careful and using a lot of effort
Being careful and polite when speaking to avoid hurting people
Compounds
A fine, light piece of cloth worn over the face for decoration or during ceremonies
How Delicate
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word delicate comes from the Latin delicatus, which meant 'pleasing' or 'dainty'. So a 'delicate' task is one that must be done with fine skill and careful touch.