French word

délicat

Pronunciation

IPA/delika/

Meaning

  • adjectivedelicate

Example

Ce vase est délicat, fais attention.

This vase is delicate, so be careful.

Illustration for délicat (delicate)

More examples

Ce sujet est délicat, parlons-en calmement.

This subject is delicate; let's talk about it calmly.

Core concept

A fragile balance that requires gentle handling because physical damage or social awkwardness can result from carelessness.

Common phrases

  • problème délicat

    delicate problem

  • sujet délicat

    delicate subject

  • point délicat

    delicate point

Similar words

sensible: Easily affected by outside events or remarks and needing considerate treatment.
gênant: Likely to cause awkwardness or discomfort through words or actions.
fragile: Easily damaged by force or impact and requiring careful handling.
subtil: Showing or involving slight differences or meanings that are hard to notice.

Definition in French

Qui a une finesse ou une subtilité qui demande prudence ou tact pour être apprécié ou manipulé.

Word origin

Delicat is inherited through Old French from Latin delicatus, whose meaning of pleasing or refined gave rise to French senses involving refinement, subtlety, and sensitivity.

Usage tips

  • For people or problems, délicat often means sensitive or requiring tact, as in une question délicate, rather than physically fragile.

Other meanings

  • fragileadjective
  • sensitiveadjective
  • refinedadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word