delicate

1 of 1adjective

/ˈdɛləkət/

Forms:more delicate,most delicate

1

small and attractive in shape, structure, or appearance

C1

The delicate ballerina moved across the stage with grace and precision, captivating the audience with her elegant movements.
She had delicate features, with porcelain skin and soft, doe-like eyes that gave her an ethereal beauty.
Despite her delicate appearance, she possessed inner strength and resilience that helped her overcome life's challenges.
He had delicate hands, nimble and skilled in the art of surgery, capable of performing intricate procedures with precision.
The delicate flower girl walked down the aisle, scattering rose petals with each step, adding a touch of sweetness to the wedding ceremony.

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2

easily harmed or destroyed

The delicate flowers wilted in the hot sun.
Handle the delicate china teacups with care to avoid chipping.
The delicate glass ornaments shattered when they fell off the shelf.
The delicate artwork was protected behind glass in the museum.

Synonyms:

3

fine or intricate in texture, structure, or design

Delicate embroidery adorned the gown.
The watch mechanism is delicate and precise.
The artist worked on delicate filigree.
Delicate carvings decorated the temple.
The lace was delicate and detailed.

4

easily hurt or offended

She's delicate about criticism of her work.
He has a delicate temperament.
Delicate feelings must be considered in negotiations.
Be careful what you say; he's delicate.
The patient is emotionally delicate after surgery.

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5

hard to handle and requiring great sensitivity

Negotiating the ceasefire was a delicate task.
Handling delicate matters requires diplomacy.
The conversation was delicate, so he chose his words carefully.
Delicate negotiations avoided conflict.
The situation is politically delicate.

Synonyms:

ticklish touchy

6

capable of detecting or measuring very small differences or changes precisely

The scale is delicate enough to measure grams.
The instrument is delicate and highly sensitive.
Delicate sensors monitor tiny environmental changes.
The equipment's delicate calibration is essential.
A delicate thermometer records minute temperature shifts.

7

(of food or drinks) light and subtle in flavor or texture

The chef prepared a delicate soufflé that melted in the mouth.
The delicate flavors of the herbal tea complemented the dessert perfectly.
The delicate pastry was flaky and perfectly balanced in sweetness.
The soup had a delicate broth with hints of ginger and lemongrass.

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