handle with kid gloves: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘handle with kid gloves’ mean?
The idiom "handle with kid gloves" means to treat someone or something delicately or carefully, usually because they are sensitive or fragile. It implies the need for caution and gentleness in one's actions or words towards the person or object being handled.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "let someone down gently" means to disappoint or reject someone in a kind and considerate way, often to soften the blow of bad news or a refusal.
The idiom "lay hands on" means to find or acquire something, often with a sense of urgency or determination.
The idiom "in safe hands" means that someone or something is being taken care of or protected by a trustworthy and capable individual or group.
An idiom meaning a controversial issue or situation that is difficult to handle, and often passed quickly from person to person to avoid dealing with it.
The idiom "have a way with" means to possess a natural skill or talent for dealing with or influencing others in a particular area or situation.
The idiom "have a handle on" means to have a good understanding or control over something.
The idiom "handle oneself" means to behave or manage oneself in a certain situation. It implies being able to cope or deal with a particular circumstance or challenge independently and competently.
The Origins of Gentleness
Handle with kid gloves is an idiom that means to treat something or someone delicately or cautiously. When someone says they are handling something with kid gloves, they are being extremely careful and gentle in their actions.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the use of actual kid gloves, which are gloves made from the skin of young goats. Kid gloves were known for their softness and delicacy, making them a popular accessory for formal occasions. The use of kid gloves in this idiom suggests that the subject being handled is fragile or sensitive and requires careful attention.
The phrase "handle with kid gloves" is commonly used to describe the approach people should have when dealing with sensitive or difficult situations, such as sensitive topics, fragile objects, or delicate relationships. It emphasizes the need for tact, caution, and sensitivity in handling these situations.
Furthermore, the idiom can also be used metaphorically to describe the need for careful handling of individuals who may be emotionally fragile or easily offended. It implies the need for empathy and understanding when interacting with such individuals.
let someone down gently is another idiom related to "handle with kid gloves". It means to deliver bad news or disappoint someone in a considerate and gentle manner. When you let someone down gently, you are being sensitive to their feelings and trying to soften the blow of the news. This idiom is similar to "handle with kid gloves" in that it emphasizes the need for delicacy and tact in dealing with sensitive matters.
hand in glove is yet another idiom related to "handle with kid gloves". This idiom means to have a close or intimate relationship with someone, often implying a partnership or collaboration. When two people work hand in glove, they are working closely together and have a strong connection. This idiom is different from "handle with kid gloves" in that it focuses on the closeness and collaboration between individuals, rather than the delicacy and caution required in handling a situation.
handle oneself is the final idiom related to "handle with kid gloves". It means to manage or conduct oneself in a particular way, often suggesting the need for self-control or composure. When you handle yourself well, you are able to navigate difficult or challenging situations with grace and poise. This idiom is different from "handle with kid gloves" as it emphasizes personal control and management, rather than the careful handling of external factors.
Overall, the idiom "handle with kid gloves" is widely used in the English language to emphasize the need for delicacy, tact, and sensitivity in various situations. Its metaphorical use extends beyond physical handling to include the careful management of relationships and the self. The related idioms "let someone down gently", "hand in glove", and "handle oneself" provide further insights into the intricacies of human interactions and the importance of thoughtful and considerate behavior.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "handle with kid gloves" can be used in a sentence:
She's very sensitive, so you need to handle her with kid gloves.
The fragile china plates should be handled with kid gloves to avoid any damage.
When dealing with a delicate situation, it's important to handle it with kid gloves to prevent any further complications.
More "Cautious" idioms
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