indelicate

An indelicate question is one you probably should not ask because it is too personal, embarrassing, or rude. The word usually describes comments, jokes, or behavior that show poor judgment in sensitive situations. You might call a joke indelicate if it is in bad taste, or a remark about someone's age, weight, or private life if it crosses a social boundary. It often suggests carelessness rather than cruelty, but it still makes people uncomfortable.

The word indelicate describes something that lacks tact, sensitivity, or good taste, often in a way that causes embarrassment or offense. It is commonly used for things said or done in situations that call for more care. An indelicate question, joke, or remark usually feels too personal, too blunt, or badly timed.

The word often appears when someone touches on a private or awkward subject without enough respect for the other person's feelings. For example, asking about someone's salary, health, age, or romantic problems in a casual setting may seem indelicate. A joke can also be indelicate if it depends on sexual content, offensive stereotypes, or a painful topic that should have been handled more carefully.

Although it usually refers to speech or social behavior, it can also describe rough or awkward handling in a more physical sense. In that use, it suggests a lack of gentleness or precision. Still, the social meaning is the one most learners are likely to meet.

The word does not always imply bad intent. Someone may be indelicate simply because they are careless, awkward, or unaware of what is appropriate. For example: "The interviewer asked several indelicate questions about her personal life," or "He made an indelicate joke that offended many guests." In short, when words or actions feel too blunt, too personal, or not respectful enough for the moment, indelicate is often a good description.