Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Lacking sensitivity, tact, or refinement; coarse or offensive in behavior or speech: Describes actions, remarks, or behavior that show a disregard for social propriety or good taste, often causing embarrassment or discomfort.
   • Verging on indecency; slightly improper or risqué: Describes something that is not quite indecent but is considered improper or in poor taste, often related to topics considered private or taboo.

Usage and Examples

• Adjective:
  • His indelicate questions about her salary made everyone at the table uncomfortable. (This shows a lack of tact regarding a private topic.)
  • The comedian's jokes were considered indelicate for the formal awards ceremony. (This describes humor that is improper for a specific context.)
  • It was indelicate of him to mention the failed project during her celebration. (This refers to behavior that is insensitive and in poor taste.)

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "Indelicate" vs. "Indecent": While both imply impropriety, "indelicate" is generally milder. It suggests a breach of taste or sensitivity, whereas "indecent" is stronger, implying offensiveness to morality or modesty.
  • An indelicate remark might be a tactless personal comment.
  • An indecent proposal is one that is morally offensive.
• Contextual Sensitivity: What is considered indelicate can vary greatly depending on cultural norms, social setting, and the relationship between people. A comment might be indelicate in a business meeting but acceptable among close friends.

Variants and Related Words

• Indelicacy (noun): The quality or state of being indelicate; an indelicate act or remark.
  • The indelicacy of his comment was shocking.
• Indelicately (adverb): In an indelicate manner.
  • He phrased the criticism very indelicately.

Synonyms

• Tactless: Revealing a lack of skill in dealing with people or situations without causing offense.
• Inconsiderate: Thoughtlessly causing hurt or inconvenience to others.
• Coarse: Lacking refinement or grace; rude.
• Improper: Not in accordance with accepted standards, especially of morality or good taste.
• Unseemly: (Of behavior or actions) not proper or appropriate.

Antonyms

• Delicate: Very careful and tactful in action or statement.
• Tactful: Having or showing skill and sensitivity in dealing with others or with difficult issues.
• Discreet: Careful and prudent in one's speech or actions, especially to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage.
• Refined: Elegant and cultured in appearance, manner, or taste.
• Proper: Conforming to established standards of behavior or manners; suitable or correct.

Idiomatic Expressions and Phrases

• To be indelicate enough to do something: A formal or slightly archaic phrasing used to criticize someone for doing something tactless.
  • He was indelicate enough to ask about her age in front of everyone.
• An indelicate subject/matter: A topic that is considered private, embarrassing, or not suitable for polite conversation.
  • Financial troubles are often an indelicate subject at social gatherings.

Adjective

1. verging on the indecent
   • an indelicate proposition
2. lacking propriety and good taste in manners and conduct
   • indecorous behavior
3. in violation of good taste even verging on the indecent
   • an indelicate remark
   • an off-color joke