Responsive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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responsive

[rษชหˆspษ’nsษชv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

web design

Reacting quickly and positively to any changes or new ideas, especially in the context of web design.

Synonyms

adaptive, flexible, reactive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
responsive

Used to describe someone or something that reacts quickly and positively to a particular need or demand.

  • The customer service team is very responsive to inquiries.
  • A responsive website adjusts its layout based on the userโ€™s device.
reactive

Often has a negative connotation, indicating someone or something that acts in response to situations rather than taking initiative.

  • His reactive nature made him less effective in leadership roles.
  • Reactive maintenance costs can be higher than preventive maintenance.
flexible

Used when describing someone or something able to bend easily without breaking or to be modified or adapted to new conditions.

  • She has a flexible work schedule allowing her to start and finish anytime.
  • The flexible plastic can be molded into various shapes.
adaptive

Applied in situations where a person or system can change appropriately in response to different environments or conditions.

  • Adaptive learning software tailors the educational experience to each student.
  • Many animals have adaptive features that help them survive in their environments.

Examples of usage

  • The responsive design of the website ensures optimal viewing on all devices.
  • The developer created a responsive layout that adapts to different screen sizes.
  • The responsive nature of the website allows for a seamless user experience.
  • The team prides itself on its responsive approach to design.
  • Being responsive to user feedback is crucial for improving the website.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In web design, a responsive layout adjusts to fit various screen sizes, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
  • Responsive design emerged in the early 2010s as smartphones and tablets became more popular.
  • CSS media queries are often used to make websites responsive, allowing elements to change based on device characteristics.

Psychology

  • Responsiveness in communication can enhance relationships, leading to greater trust and intimacy between individuals.
  • Research shows that responsive parenting, where caregivers react promptly to a child's needs, is crucial for emotional development.
  • In social situations, being responsive can create a more engaging and supportive environment.

Business

  • In customer service, being responsive means quickly addressing customer queries and complaints, essential for customer satisfaction.
  • Agile methodologies in project management emphasize responsive teams that adapt to changes and feedback efficiently.
  • Companies that are more responsive to market changes often outperform competitors.

Art

  • Responsive art adapts to the audienceโ€™s input or environment, creating an interactive experience.
  • Some artists utilize technology to make their installations responsive, changing based on viewers' movements or sounds.
  • The concept of responsive art reflects a broader trend towards audience engagement in contemporary creativity.

Origin of 'responsive'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'responsive' comes from the Latin word 'respondere', which means to 'answer' or 'reply'.
  • It entered the English language around the late 15th century, initially used in relation to answering queries.
  • Over time, the meaning expanded to include adapting to different situations, particularly in technology.

The word 'responsive' originated from the verb 'respond' which comes from the Latin word 'respondฤ“re', meaning 'to answer'. The concept of being responsive has evolved over time to also include the idea of reacting quickly and positively to changes or new ideas, especially in the context of web design.


See also: autoresponder, respondent, respondents, responder, responders, responsiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,574 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.