delicate materials

[dɛlɪkət məˈtɪriəlz]
noun phrasepl: delicate materials
materiais delicados
1. Fabrics, textiles, or substances that require careful handling to avoid damage, tearing, staining, or deterioration
Silk and lace are delicate materials that need special washing instructions.
Seda e renda são materiais delicados que precisam de instruções especiais de lavagem.
2. Items or substances that are fragile, sensitive to temperature, humidity, or chemical exposure
Museums use climate-controlled storage for delicate materials like ancient documents.
Museus usam armazenamento com clima controlado para materiais delicados como documentos antigos.
3. Sensitive or easily damaged components in manufacturing or scientific contexts
Handling delicate materials in the laboratory requires precision and care.
O manuseio de materiais delicados no laboratório requer precisão e cuidado.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, the term 'delicate materials' is commonly used on clothing labels, laundry instructions, and in museum conservation. Brazilian Portuguese speakers frequently encounter this phrase on imported clothing and household product instructions. The concept reflects a broader cultural awareness of proper material care and sustainability.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
fragile materialssensitive materialsdelicate fabricsfine materials
Antonyms / Antônimos
durable materialsrobust materialssturdy materialstough materials

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
materiais delicados
Standard term used throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
materiais delicados / tecidos finos
Often paired with 'tecidos finos' (fine fabrics)
São Paulo
materiais delicados / materiais sensíveis
Common in commercial and industrial contexts
Portugal
materiais delicados / materiais frágeis
Portuguese variant uses 'frágeis' interchangeably

Related Words

fabric caregentle washprotective handlingmaterial preservationfragilitysensitivity

Related Idioms & Phrases

handle with care
treat with kid gloves
delicate balance
treat like eggshells
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