Spanish Conversation · Level 160
30 words
Spanish word
delicadeza
Pronunciation
IPA/delikaˈðeθa/
Meaning
- feminine nounthoughtfulness
Example
Su delicadeza al tratar el tema calmó a todos.
His thoughtfulness in handling the matter calmed everyone.
More examples
Los médicos actuaron con delicadeza durante el examen.
The doctors acted with thoughtfulness during the examination.
Core concept
Gentle, careful handling of another person's feelings.
Common phrases
hablar con delicadeza
speak with thoughtfulness
falta de delicadeza
lack of thoughtfulness
mostrar delicadeza
show thoughtfulness
Similar words
tacto: Chooses words and actions cautiously to suit the mood and social situation.
consideración: Considers others' circumstances and shows thoughtful regard for their needs.
cortesía: Behaves with polite, formal manners and customary respect toward others.
sensibilidad: Notices subtle emotional cues and responds with sensitive awareness.
Definition in Spanish
Indica la sensibilidad y el tacto al tratar asuntos o a otras personas, procurando respeto y cuidado.
Word origin
The word comes from the adjective delicado ('delicate, tender') plus the noun-forming suffix -eza, with delicado ultimately from Latin delicatus meaning 'tender'.
Usage tips
- Unlike English 'delicacy', which often names rare food or physical fragility, delicadeza mainly denotes social sensitivity and tact.
Other meanings
- sensitivitynoun
- politenessnoun
Opposites
- rudezarudenessnoun
- brutalidadbrutalitynoun
Related words
- delicadodelicateadjective