What is delicate? Pronunciation and usage in English

delicate means . Learn how to pronounce and use delicate through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of delicate

delicateadjective

/ˈdɛlɪkət/
Definition & pronunciation of delicate

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "delicate" in English. It's a tricky one because of the silent 't'! Here’s a breakdown:

1. Phonetic Transcription (for accuracy):

  • /dɪˈlɪkət/ (This is the most precise way to represent it)

2. Syllable Breakdown & Pronunciation:

  • di - Sounds like "dee" (as in "dime")
  • li - Sounds like "lee" (as in "ice")
  • cat - This is where it gets tricky! The 't' is silent. It sounds like "cat" (as in "cat").

3. Putting it together:

It’s essentially: dee-lee-cat

4. Emphasis:

The emphasis is on the second syllable: li- (as in "li-ght")

5. Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't pronounce the 't': This is the most common mistake. Really focus on not saying it.
  • Focus on the “cat” sound: It should resemble the word “cat” in terms of vowel sound and rhythm.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it spoken. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search "how to pronounce delicate" on Google and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/delicate/ - This website has pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for “how to pronounce delicate” on YouTube, and you’ll find many videos.

Would you like me to:

  • Say it out loud for you?
  • Give you some more practice words with silent letters?

Usage and examples with the word delicate in English

Let's break down how to use the word "delicate" in English. It’s a versatile word with several nuances, so understanding those will help you use it effectively.

1. Core Meaning: Fragile and Easily Damaged

At its most basic, "delicate" describes something that is easily broken, damaged, or spoiled. Think of physical things.

  • Examples:
    • "The porcelain doll was incredibly delicate and needed to be handled with care." (Fragile)
    • “Don't put that flower in the sun; it’s a delicate bloom.” (Easily damaged)
    • "The cake was so delicate that it crumbled when I tried to move it." (Fragile)

2. Describing Something Subtle and Fine (Often Emotional or Artistic)

"Delicate" can also refer to something subtle, refined, or of fine quality – often when talking about feelings, art, or mannerisms.

  • Examples:
    • “She has a delicate nature and is easily affected by criticism.” (Sensitive, gentle)
    • "His touch was delicate and comforting." (Gentle, careful)
    • “The painting had a delicate beauty, with subtle shades of color.” (Subtle, refined)
    • "There was a delicate balance between joy and sadness in her performance." (Subtle, nuanced)

3. Describing a Complex Situation – Requiring Care and Skill

"Delicate" can also describe a situation that needs to be handled with care, tact, and skill, because it's potentially risky or difficult.

  • Examples:
    • “The negotiations were delicate and required a careful approach.” (Difficult, requiring subtlety)
    • “It’s a delicate situation – you need to tread carefully.” (Sensitive, requiring caution)
    • “The doctor performed a delicate surgery.” (Difficult, requiring skill)

4. Adjective vs. Adverb:

  • Adjective: Used to describe nouns (things, people, ideas). (e.g., “a delicate flower”)
  • Adverb: (Rarely used with “delicate”) – Would describe how something is done. (e.g., “She moved delicately.”) – You generally wouldn't use "delicate" as an adverb.

Tips for Using "Delicate" Effectively:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the situation to determine the best meaning of "delicate."
  • Synonyms: Consider synonyms to add more precision: fragile, fine, subtle, sensitive, refined, precarious, tricky.
  • Don't overuse it: "Delicate" is a powerful word. Using it too often can diminish its impact.

Here are some sentences demonstrating the different uses:

  • "The ancient manuscript was incredibly delicate and stored in a climate-controlled vault." (Fragile)
  • “Her apology felt delicate and sincere.” (Subtle, genuine)
  • “The government is dealing with a delicate issue concerning immigration.” (Difficult, requiring tact)
  • “He spoke with a delicate irony, hinting at the truth without stating it outright.” (Subtle, nuanced)

To help me tailor my explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about when you want to use the word "delicate"? (e.g., describing an object, a person’s character, a situation?)

Synonyms for the word delicate

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