overdelicate
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: 1. Excessively or extremely delicate: Describes something that is too fine, fragile, or sensitive, often to an impractical or problematic degree. It implies a level of delicacy beyond what is normal or desirable.
Usage
The adjective "overdelicate" is used to modify a noun, indicating that the thing described possesses an extreme and often excessive sensitivity, fragility, or refinement. It frequently carries a critical or negative connotation, suggesting weakness, impracticality, or being too easily affected.
Examples
- The patient had an overdelicate constitution and was prone to frequent illness.
- She found his overdelicate manners, where he winced at any slight noise, rather tiresome.
- The mechanism is overdelicate for everyday use and breaks too easily.
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: Can describe abstract concepts like feelings, sensibilities, or judgments that are excessively fine or easily offended.
- His overdelicate sense of honor prevented him from accepting any help.
- Critical Connotation: Often implies a flaw or disadvantage rather than a virtue.
- The critic dismissed the poem as overdelicate and lacking in substance.
Variants and Related Words
- Delicate (adj): Fine, subtle, or easily damaged. (The base word without the excessive connotation).
- Oversensitive (adj): Excessively sensitive, especially to criticism or stimuli. (A close synonym often applied to people or feelings).
- Fragile (adj): Easily broken or damaged. (Describes physical weakness).
- Fastidious (adj): Very attentive to accuracy, detail, or cleanliness, sometimes excessively so. (Can overlap in meaning regarding refined tastes).
Synonyms
- Hypersensitive
- Overnice
- Ultrafine
- Too delicate
Antonyms
- Robust
- Sturdy
- Hardy
- Strong
- Coarse
Adjective
- extremely delicate
- an overdelicate digestive system