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sensitive

[ˈsɛnsɪtɪv]

sensitive Definition

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

Antonyms for sensitive

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

  • 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.

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

    Example

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

  • 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.'

How do native speakers use this expression?