B2adverblanguagerelationships
US/ˈdel.ɪ.kət.li/
UK/ˈdel.ɪ.kət.li/
in a careful, gentle or fine way; in a way that needs great care
In context
She delicately lifted the old photograph from the box.
The manager had to handle the complaint very delicately.
The soup is delicately flavored with ginger and lemon.
Words that go with delicately
adverb + adjective
- delicately balancedThe peace talks are delicately balanced.
- delicately flavoredThe fish was delicately flavored with herbs.
- delicately scentedThe room was delicately scented with roses.
- delicately carvedA delicately carved wooden box sat on the shelf.
verb + adverb
- handle delicatelyThe issue must be handled delicately.
- tread delicatelyYou have to tread delicately when you mention money.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
She spoke delicate.Correct: She spoke delicately.