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sensitive
/ˈsɛn.sɪ.tɪv/
quick to detect or respond to slight changes
She is very sensitive to criticism.
She reacts strongly to even minor criticism.
general
quick to detect or respond to slight changes
The sensor is sensitive to temperature changes.
The sensor detects even small temperature variations.
Often used to describe people who are easily affected by emotions or external stimuli.
general
requiring careful handling or treatment
This topic is sensitive and should be discussed carefully.
This topic is emotionally charged and requires tact.
Used to describe situations that may cause offense or discomfort.
Medicine
technical
capable of detecting small amounts of a substance
The test is highly sensitive to the presence of the virus.
The test can detect even trace amounts of the virus.
In medical contexts, sensitivity refers to a test's ability to correctly identify positive cases.
Collocations
sensitive toeasily affected byhighly sensitiveextremely responsivesensitive topicemotionally charged subject
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid overuse
Use 'sensitive' carefully to avoid sounding overly critical or judgmental.
Gold Rule
Context matters
The meaning of 'sensitive' changes significantly based on context—people, situations, or technical instruments.
Word Origin
From Latin 'sensitivus', meaning 'capable of feeling', from 'sensus' (feeling).
Usage Notes
Can describe people, situations, or technical instruments. Avoid using 'sensitive' to describe people in a negative context unless necessary.
Word Breakdown
sens
feeling
root-itive
capable of
suffixEnglish Dictionary