I've installed Microsoft Office for mac, but really only need Microsoft word, is it safe to delete the rest of the applications? (office, powerpoint, excel etc)

If you have installed the entire office suite it's best to leave it.

That being said you can uninstall ALL of it and start over.
This way you can select a custom install and only use the parts you actually want.

I don't remember that option... but I will try again thanks.

When you do the reinstall, I REALLY suggest you at least install Word and Excel.

Having said that, there are so many options available to people that weren't there 5 years ago. I'm an AVID Word and Excel user, but take a look at Google Docs.

It gives you an online Document, spreadsheet, powerpointish and just "folders" option online. No extra software needed.

If your needs are simple, that may be all you need.