Offensiveness: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe language, behavior, or actions that cause someone to feel hurt, angry, or upset. It can be applied in a variety of situations where someone's feelings are negatively impacted.

• His comments were full of offensiveness, making everyone uncomfortable.
• The offensiveness of the joke made the meeting awkward.

Refers to a lack of awareness or consideration for the feelings of others. Typically used when someone fails to recognize how their words or actions might affect others.

• Her insensitivity to his situation was surprising.
• He handled the news with complete insensitivity, causing her to cry.

Used to describe a lack of manners or consideration in behavior, often in social situations. It points to actions that are intentionally or unintentionally impolite.

• His rudeness towards the waiter was embarrassing.
• The rudeness of interrupting someone while they are speaking is unacceptable.

Describes annoying or unpleasant behavior that may bother other people. Generally has a negative connotation and is used to highlight very irritating actions.

• His obnoxiousness ruined the dinner party.
• The obnoxiousness of her laughter was hard to ignore.