be delicate

[bi ˈdelɪkət]

verb phrase

ser delicado

1. to require careful or sensitive handling; to be easily damaged or harmed

This fabric is delicate and needs gentle washing.

Este tecido é delicado e precisa de lavagem suave.

2. to be tactful or considerate in a sensitive situation

You need to be delicate when discussing his recent loss.

Você precisa ser delicado ao discutir sua perda recente.

3. to be in a sensitive or precarious condition

The situation is delicate and requires careful management.

A situação é delicada e requer gestão cuidadosa.

4. to be frail or weak in health

After the illness, she is delicate and needs rest.

Após a doença, ela está delicada e precisa de repouso.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Regional Variations

General Brazilian

ser delicado

standard usage across Brazil

Rio de Janeiro

ser delicado

common usage, sometimes with emphasis on caution

São Paulo

ser delicado

standard usage, often in business contexts

Portugal

ser delicado

standard usage; may use 'ser frágil' for fragility emphasis

handle with delicate care

a delicate balance

a delicate situation

delicate condition (euphemism for pregnancy)

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