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délicatesse

delicacy, tact

noun deh-lee-ka-TES Rare
Mind & Emotions Personality

Origin: From Old French delicat, from Latin delicatus (pleasing, dainty).

Also means

refinement, subtlety

Usage Note

délicatesse can denote both a tactful manner in social situations and a fine quality of craftsmanship or flavour. Avec délicatesse means 'with care and sensitivity'. The word has no common short form; la délicatesse de la situation stresses how sensitive a matter is.

Examples

"Il lui annonça la nouvelle avec délicatesse."

Natural Translation

He broke the news to her with tact.

Literal Translation

He told her the news with delicacy.

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