delicately
Meaning
in a way that is very fine, intricate, or subtle in quality, appearance, or action.
in a way that requires careful or sensitive handling to avoid causing problems or damage.
in a way that shows or requires tact and sensitivity.
Structure
Usage
she placed the antique vase delicately on the shelf.
the issue must be handled delicately to avoid offending anyone.
the lace was delicately woven with intricate patterns.
Etymology
the adverb 'delicately' is formed by adding the common english adverbial suffix '-ly' to the adjective 'delicate'. the core adjective 'delicate' entered english from latin delicatus, which carried meanings of luxury, pleasure, and fineness, possibly derived from deliciae (delight, pleasure, allurement). this latin root suggests an evolution from concepts of sensual pleasure and allure to qualities of fineness, fragility, and subtlety. the '-ly' suffix, of germanic origin, systematically transforms the descriptive quality of the adjective into a manner of action, allowing 'delicately' to describe performing an action with the characteristic finesse, care, or subtlety implied by 'delicate'.
Analysis
delicate (from latin delicatus, meaning "alluring, delightful, dainty, fine") + ly (from old english -līce, an adverbial suffix forming adverbs from adjectives).