What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sensitive
Example
She's very sensitive and gets upset easily. [sensitive: adjective]
Example
The topic of politics can be sensitive, so we should approach it with care. [sensitive: adjective]
Example
The microphone is very sensitive and can pick up even the slightest sound. [sensitive: adjective]
perceptive
Example
She's a perceptive individual and always seems to know what's going on. [perceptive: adjective]
Example
The book offers a perceptive analysis of the political landscape. [perceptive: adjective]
Example
The painting is a perceptive portrayal of human emotion and experience. [perceptive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sensitive is more commonly used than perceptive in everyday language, especially when referring to emotional sensitivity. Perceptive is more commonly used in academic or literary contexts to describe insightful observations or analyses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sensitive and perceptive?
Perceptive is generally considered more formal than sensitive, as it is often used in academic or literary contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or informal settings depending on the context.
