Sensitive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sensitive

[ˈsɛnsɪtɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

emotional

Easily affected or hurt by someone's words or actions. People who are sensitive may get upset easily.

Synonyms

emotional, susceptible, touchy, vulnerable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sensitive	Use when describing someone who is easily affected by emotions, changes, or external factors. This term can also apply to delicate objects or topics. She is very sensitive to criticism. This is a sensitive topic; please be careful.
emotional	Appropriate when describing someone who experiences strong emotions or shows emotions very easily. He became very emotional during the speech. She is known to be quite emotional about her work.
touchy	Best used when describing someone who is easily offended or upset. Has a slightly negative connotation. Be careful with him, he's quite touchy about his weight. This is a touchy subject for many people.
susceptible	Applicable when referring to someone or something that is easily influenced or harmed, often by external factors or changes. Typically used in a more neutral or scientific sense. Children are more susceptible to colds and flu. He is susceptible to flattery.
vulnerable	Used to describe someone or something that is open to harm or attack, either emotionally, physically, or situationally. It implies a need for protection. Children are vulnerable to many dangers when left unsupervised. After the breakup, she felt very vulnerable.

Examples of usage

She is very sensitive and takes everything personally.
He is sensitive to criticism and always takes it to heart.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

physical

Reacting quickly to changes or stimuli. A sensitive skin easily gets irritated.

Synonyms

delicate, irritable, responsive, tender.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sensitive	Used when referring to someone who feels emotions deeply or reacts strongly to stimuli. He is very sensitive to criticism. The sensor is sensitive to changes in temperature.
responsive	Implied when someone or something reacts quickly and positively to changes or instructions. The new software is highly responsive. She was responsive to feedback from her team.
irritable	Refers to someone who easily becomes annoyed or angry. This word often has a negative connotation. He is irritable when he doesn't get enough sleep. After the long flight, she was feeling irritable.
delicate	Best used to describe something that requires careful handling or is easily damaged; also used for describing subtle or fine details. The glass vase is very delicate. She made a delicate adjustment to the painting.
tender	Often used to describe someone who is gentle and caring, or something that is soft and easy to break or chew. He gave her a tender look. The meat was so tender it fell off the bone.

Examples of usage

She has sensitive skin that reacts to most skincare products.
His eyes are sensitive to bright lights.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

information

Requiring delicate handling or careful treatment. Sensitive information should not be shared with everyone.

Synonyms

classified, confidential, private, secret.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sensitive	Use this word when talking about information or topics that need to be handled with care because they can easily cause emotional reactions or are fragile in nature. Her medical history is sensitive information Be careful, this is a very sensitive topic for him
confidential	Use this word for information that is meant to be kept private and shared only with authorized people, often in a professional or legal context. Please keep this document confidential The meeting contained confidential information about the merger
private	Use this word for information or activities that pertain to one's personal life or are intended to be kept away from public scrutiny. She shared some private details about her life with me His private conversation was not meant to be overheard
classified	Use this word for information that has been officially deemed restricted by a government authority or organization, often for national security purposes. The documents were classified and not accessible to the general public He has clearance to access classified files
secret	Use this word for information intentionally kept hidden from others, often to prevent certain reactions or outcomes. They planned a secret party for her birthday He told me his deepest secret

Examples of usage

The document contains sensitive information that is confidential.
The company has strict policies to protect sensitive data.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Sensitive people may have a heightened awareness of their surroundings and the emotions of others, often referred to as high sensitivity.
About 15-20% of the population are considered highly sensitive individuals, indicating it is a common trait.
Sensitivity can be linked to deeper processing of information, influencing creativity and empathy.

Pop Culture

Many popular songs discuss themes of sensitivity, exploring the emotional depth of relationships.
Films and books often portray sensitive characters as introspective and deeply emotional, resonating with audiences.
The portrayal of sensitive characters has grown more diverse, showcasing how this quality can lead to strength and resilience.

Science

Research suggests that highly sensitive individuals tend to experience emotions more intensely due to neurological factors.
In biology, sensitivity refers to the ability of organisms to respond to stimuli in their environment, an essential survival trait.
Certain plants, like the Mimosa pudica, exhibit sensitivity to touch, curling their leaves when disturbed.

Literature

Sensitive themes are often explored in literature, such as vulnerability, emotional growth, and the complexities of human nature.
Authors like Virginia Woolf and Haruki Murakami delve into the minds of sensitive characters, revealing their inner struggles.
Poetic expressions often convey sensitivity through imagery, evoking strong emotions and a connection to readers.

Origin of 'sensitive'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'sensus,' meaning 'feeling' or 'sense.'
Originally, the term described physical sensations before it was used for emotional experiences.
Started being used in English in the late 14th century to describe both physical and emotional responsiveness.

The word 'sensitive' comes from the Latin word 'sensitivus', meaning 'capable of sensation or feeling'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. Over time, the word evolved to describe both emotional and physical sensitivity, as well as sensitivity in handling information.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,413, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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