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 film is sensitive to light, so it needs to be stored carefully. [sensitive: adjective]
Example
He has a sensitive ear for music and can detect even the slightest nuances in a piece. [sensitive: noun]
susceptible
Example
Children are more susceptible to peer pressure than adults. [susceptible: adjective]
Example
She has a weak immune system and is susceptible to catching colds. [susceptible: adjective]
Example
The material used for the sculpture is susceptible to erosion over time. [susceptible: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sensitive is more commonly used than susceptible in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications. Susceptible is more technical and specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sensitive and susceptible?
Both sensitive and susceptible can be used in formal or informal contexts, but susceptible is more commonly used in technical or scientific writing.
