delicate
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delicate
Small, fine, and of a dainty, elegant shape. Often used for people, body parts, objects, or even handwriting.
Die Ballerina bewegte sich mit zierlichen Schritten über die Bühne.
The ballerina moved across the stage with delicate steps.
'Zierlich' (delicate) is related to the noun 'die Zierde' (ornament, decoration) and the verb 'zieren' (to adorn). Something that is 'zierlich' (delicate) therefore appears fine and elegant, like a piece of jewelry.
Die alte Brosche zierte ihr Kleid.
The old brooch adorned her dress.
The adjective 'zierlich' (delicate) often describes people or body parts, but also fine objects. Typical combinations are 'eine zierliche Person' (a delicate person), 'zierliche Hände' (delicate hands), 'eine zierliche Porzellanfigur' (a delicate porcelain figurine), or 'eine zierliche Handschrift' (delicate handwriting).
Sie hatte eine sehr zierliche und gut lesbare Handschrift.
She had very delicate and easily readable handwriting.
'Zierlich' (delicate) is a positive word. It describes not only that something is small, but also emphasizes a fine, elegant, and graceful quality.
Das zierliche Armband war ein perfektes Geschenk.
The delicate bracelet was a perfect gift.
small
'klein' and 'zierlich' can both describe a small size. 'klein' is neutral and very general. You can use it for people, rooms, objects, or amounts. 'zierlich' does not just mean small, but also fine, narrow, or delicate. It often sounds rather positive or descriptive and is especially suitable for people, hands, jewelry, or fine handwriting. Learners may confuse the words because 'zierlich' also suggests smallness. But not everything small is 'zierlich': a small cabinet is normally not 'zierlich', but a narrow hand can be.
Frau Yilmaz hat die Einladung in zierlicher Schrift geschrieben.
Ms. Yilmaz wrote the invitation in delicate handwriting.
Ich kaufe eine kleine Tasche, damit sie in den Rucksack passt.
I’m buying a small bag so that it fits in the backpack.