Handle/treat, etc. somebody with kid gloves

usgb
phrase

To treat someone very gently or cautiously.

She is so sensitive that you have to handle her with kid gloves.
Visual representation of "handle/treat, etc. somebody with kid gloves" - To treat someone very gently or cautiously

Often appears as...

  • treat with kid gloves
  • handle with kid gloves

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "handle/treat, etc. somebody with kid gloves"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Sensitivity

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

Illustration for Emotional Sensitivity
His recent break-up has left him raw we’ll have to handle him with kid gloves.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Cautious Treatment

Applies when there's potential for conflict or a delicate issue is at stake.

Illustration for Cautious Treatment
The negotiations were tense, so we treated the partners with kid gloves.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Cultural Nuance

Understand it’s a metaphor for being extra careful, as one would be while wearing actual soft gloves.

Illustration for Cultural Nuance
You'll need to handle that antique vase with kid gloves; it's very valuable.
Visual representation of the word "Handle/treat, etc. somebody with kid gloves"

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