sensitive

[ˈsɛnsɪtɪv]

sensitive Definition

• 1. quick to detect or respond to slight changes, signals, or influences
• 2. easily hurt or offended by criticism or insults
• 3. needing careful treatment; easily damaged

Using sensitive: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "sensitive" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The skin on his face was sensitive to the touch.

• Example

  She is very sensitive about her weight.

• Example

  Sensitive information should be kept confidential.

• Example

  The camera is very sensitive to light.

• Example

  He has a sensitive nose and can detect even the slightest odor.

sensitive Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for sensitive

• responsive
• perceptive
• susceptible
• fragile
• delicate

Antonyms for sensitive

• insensitive
• thick-skinned
• unfeeling

Idioms Using sensitive

• hit a sensitive nerve

  to say or do something that upsets or offends someone deeply

  Example

  When he criticized her work, he hit a sensitive nerve and she became defensive.

• walk on eggshells

  to be very careful in one's words or actions around someone who is easily upset or offended

  Example

  Around her boss, she always felt like she was walking on eggshells.

• thin-skinned

  easily hurt or offended by criticism or insults

  Example

  He is very thin-skinned and can't handle any kind of criticism.

Phrases with sensitive

• highly sensitive person

  a person who has a high level of sensitivity to external stimuli and tends to be more emotionally reactive than others

  Example

  As a highly sensitive person, she often feels overwhelmed in crowded places.

• sensitive issue

  a topic that is likely to cause controversy or offense if discussed openly

  Example

  Politics is always a sensitive issue, especially during election season.

• sensitive skin

  skin that is easily irritated or inflamed by external factors such as chemicals, sunlight, or temperature changes

  Example

  People with sensitive skin should avoid using harsh soaps and detergents.

Origins of sensitive

from Latin 'sensitivus', from 'sentire' meaning 'to feel'

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Summary: sensitive in Brief

The term 'sensitive' [ˈsɛnsɪtɪv] describes something that is quick to detect or respond to slight changes, signals, or influences. It can also refer to a person who is easily hurt or offended by criticism or insults. Additionally, it can describe something that needs careful treatment or is easily damaged. Examples include 'The camera is very sensitive to light.' and 'She is very sensitive about her weight.' Idioms include 'hit a sensitive nerve,' and 'walk on eggshells.'