Handle/treat, etc. somebody with kid gloves
phrase
To treat someone very gently or cautiously.
She is so sensitive that you have to handle her with kid gloves.

Often appears as...
- treat with kid gloves
- handle with kid gloves
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To treat someone very gently or cautiously.
She is so sensitive that you have to handle her with kid gloves.

Often appears as...
- treat with kid gloves
- handle with kid gloves
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1

Emotional Sensitivity
Used when someone might get upset easily or is in a vulnerable situation.

His recent break-up has left him raw — we’ll have to handle him with kid gloves.
Cautious Treatment
Applies when there's potential for conflict or a delicate issue is at stake.

The negotiations were tense, so we treated the partners with kid gloves.
Cultural Nuance
Understand it’s a metaphor for being extra careful, as one would be while wearing actual soft gloves.

You'll need to handle that antique vase with kid gloves; it's very valuable.
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