What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oversensitized
Example
After years of working in the music industry, he had become oversensitized to loud noises. [oversensitized: adjective]
Example
Her oversensitized skin reacted badly to even the gentlest of soaps. [oversensitized: adjective]
hypersensitive
Example
She was hypersensitive to any criticism of her work. [hypersensitive: adjective]
Example
The child's hypersensitive hearing made it difficult for him to concentrate in noisy environments. [hypersensitive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hypersensitive is more commonly used than oversensitized in everyday language. Hypersensitive is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while oversensitized is less common and may have a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oversensitized and hypersensitive?
Both oversensitized and hypersensitive are relatively formal words, but hypersensitive is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
