Ways to say it
| German | IPA |
|---|---|
| empfindlich | |
| heikel | /ˈhaɪ̯kəl/ |
Both words describe something that is delicate, but they are used for different types of sensitivity. Use heikel when referring to a situation or a problem that is tricky, sensitive or requires careful handling. Use empfindlich when referring to physical or sensory sensitivity, such as an object being easily damaged or a person being sensitive to physical stimuli.
Which one should you use?
The primary difference lies in what is being described. Use heikel for a delicate, tricky or sensitive situation or problem. Use empfindlich for things that are sensitive to touch, temperature or physical stimuli.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective heikel follows standard German declension rules for adjectives that precede a noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈhaɪ̯kəl/
Did you know?
- The word heikel is a close relative of the German word Ekel, which means 'loathing' or 'disgust'.
- The word empfindlich is built from the verb empfinden, which means 'to feel' or 'to perceive'.
Examples in context
- Das wäre äußerst heikel.That would be extremely delicate.This sentence illustrates how to use heikel to describe an extremely delicate situation.Tatoeba #1700815 by al_ex_an_der, translation #4193390 by tinowls
- Er war als Kind empfindlich.He was delicate as a child.This sentence shows how to use empfindlich to describe a child's physical sensitivity.Tatoeba #1684962 by Zaghawa, translation #297151 by CM
- Tom ist empfindlich.Tom is delicate.This sentence demonstrates the use of empfindlich for a person's sensitivity.Tatoeba #6615315 by Felixjp, translation #2236644 by CK
- Das Porzellan ist zart und schön dekoriert.The porcelain is delicate and beautifully decorated.
- Bitte seien Sie vorsichtig, das ist eine empfindliche Angelegenheit.Please be careful, this is a delicate matter.
- Ihre anmutigen Bewegungen zeugen von ihrer zarten Natur.Her graceful movements reveal her delicate nature.
- Pass auf, das ist zerbrechlich!Be careful, that is delicate/fragile!
- Der Schal fühlt sich sehr fein und zart an.The scarf feels very fine and delicate.
- Die Spitze des Schmetterlingsflügels ist hauchzart.The tip of the butterfly's wing is delicate as a breath.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julian and Laura are discussing how to transport a fragile glass sculpture.
- JulianDer Transport der Skulptur ist wirklich heikel.Transporting the sculpture is really delicate.
- LauraStimmt, wir müssen sehr vorsichtig sein.True, we have to be very careful.
- JulianSoll ich das Paket vorsichtig packen?Should I pack the package carefully?
- LauraJa, bitte mach das so vorsichtig wie möglich.Yes, please do it as carefully as possible.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “delicate” translations and entries empfindlich, heikel, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries empfindlich, heikel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
