ELISA ENGLISH's Blog 英語園地

When “this” appears in front of an adjective, it is used as an adverb to modify the adjective, meaning: “to the extent or degree indicated, 如此的”

For example:

我第一次覺得她如此的令人討厭!
This is the first time (that) I find her this disgusting.
=> "this" is used an adverb to modify the adjective "disgusting".

Situations this delicate require a personal touch.

=> "this" is used to modify "delicate".  "delicate" is used to modify "situations"

Situations delicate like this require a personal touch.

Situations that are this delicate require a personal touch.

Situations that are in such a delicate condition require a personal touch.

Dogs this fierce should not be allowed to be unleashed.

Dogs that are this fierce should not be allowed to be unleashed.

Dogs that are fierce like this should not be allowed to be unleashed.

Girls this pretty will never go unnoticed.

Thieves this stupid will always get caught.

See http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/this