Sensitivities: meaning, definitions and examples

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sensitivities

[ˌsɛnsɪˈtɪvɪtiz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

emotions

The quality or condition of being sensitive; the degree to which one is sensitive to external stimuli or internal feelings.

Synonyms

susceptibility, tenderness, vulnerability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sensitivities	This word is often used to describe a person's emotional responses or reactions to certain topics or environments. It can also refer to an individual's allergic reactions to food, substances, or situations. Her sensitivities to criticism make it hard for her to accept feedback His food sensitivities mean he can't eat dairy products
susceptibility	Suitable for discussing one's likelihood of being affected by a disease, condition, or influence. It often has a slightly technical or medical tone. Their genetic susceptibility to heart disease requires regular check-ups Her susceptibility to peer pressure led her to make poor decisions
tenderness	This word focuses on physical sensations of pain or discomfort, or emotional gentleness and affection. It can be used in both medical and emotional contexts. The doctor checked for tenderness in the swollen area His tenderness towards his younger sister is heartwarming
vulnerability	Often used to describe a state of being open to emotional or physical harm. It may have a negative connotation as it implies exposure to potential risks or attacks. Her vulnerability after the break-up made her uneasy around new people The town's vulnerability to flooding demands urgent attention

Examples of usage

He had a high level of sensitivities, often feeling overwhelmed by the emotions of others.
Her sensitivities to criticism made it difficult for her to accept feedback.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

medical

Abnormal or excessive susceptibility to a specific substance, condition, or stimulus that can result in adverse physical reactions.

Synonyms

allergy, hypersensitivity, intolerance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sensitivities	Use when you want to talk generally about a group of things that someone reacts to negatively. It can be used in both emotional and physical contexts. She has sensitivities to certain foods and medications He's careful not to offend anyone’s sensitivities
allergy	This is a specific medical term used for reactions to substances that cause the immune system to respond. It is mostly used in physical health contexts. She has a peanut allergy and carries an EpiPen His allergy to pollen makes springtime difficult
intolerance	Use when referring to a negative reaction to a substance that does not involve the immune system, usually related to digestion or metabolism. Lactose intolerance causes him to avoid dairy products She has a gluten intolerance and follows a strict diet
hypersensitivity	This term is often used in medical and scientific contexts to describe an exaggerated immune response to a substance. It is a more technical term compared to 'allergy'. The patient showed hypersensitivity to the drug, necessitating a change in medication Hypersensitivity reactions can range from mild to severe

Examples of usage

Her sensitivities to certain foods led to severe allergic reactions.
Some people have sensitivities to pollen, causing hay fever symptoms.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

technology

The ability of a device or system to detect or respond to input from the environment with precision and accuracy.

Synonyms

accuracy, precision, responsiveness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sensitivities	This word is often used to describe the feelings or concerns of people, particularly in situations involving emotional responses or cultural issues. We need to consider everyone's sensitivities when planning the event. Her sensitivities about the subject made it difficult to discuss openly.
responsiveness	This term is used to describe the speed and quality of a reaction, commonly in customer service or technology. The responsiveness of the customer support team was impressive. We need to increase the responsiveness of the website.
accuracy	This is used when referring to the correctness or exactness of information, measurements, or processes. The accuracy of the data was crucial for the research. We need to improve the accuracy of our predictions.
precision	This word is suitable when emphasizing the detail and exactness, often in measurements, calculations, or technical work. The precision of the machine allows for very fine adjustments. Her precision in grammar makes her an excellent editor.

Examples of usage

The touchscreen display had high sensitivities, allowing for precise control with minimal effort.
The sensor's sensitivities to changes in temperature ensured accurate readings.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Some people are more sensitive to emotions, which can make them very empathetic and aware of others' feelings.
Certain personality types, like Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP), can experience the world differently and may need more quiet time to recharge.
Sensitivity can also affect how someone experiences stress, where more sensitivity could lead to a quicker overload.

Health

Food sensitivities occur when someone's body reacts negatively to certain foods, leading to discomfort or health issues.
Allergies are a type of sensitivity where the immune system overreacts to substances that are usually harmless.
In mental health, sensitivities can contribute to conditions like anxiety, where emotional reactions are heightened.

Cultural Perspectives

Different cultures may have varying norms around expressing sensitivities, with some encouraging open emotional expression while others may promote stoicism.
In many spiritual traditions, being sensitive is viewed as a gift, allowing individuals to connect deeply with their surroundings and others.
Awareness of sensitivities can lead to greater respect and understanding in multicultural interactions, enhancing empathy among diverse groups.

Education

In educational settings, recognizing students' sensitivities can help create a more supportive environment conducive to learning.
Teachers trained in emotional intelligence can better accommodate students' sensitivities to promote positive interactions and mitigate bullying.
Inclusive programs aim to teach students about emotional and sensory sensitivities, fostering acceptance and reducing stigma.

Art and Literature

Many great artists and writers are known for their heightened sensitivities, which often influence their work and expression.
In literature, characters with deep sensitivities are often used to explore themes of vulnerability and resilience.
Art movements like Romanticism celebrated emotional sensitivity, focusing on individual experience and the beauty of deep feelings.

Translations

Translations of the word "sensitivities" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sensibilidades

🇮🇳 संवेदनशीलता

🇩🇪 Empfindlichkeiten

🇮🇩 kepekaan

🇺🇦 чутливості

🇵🇱 wrażliwości

🇯🇵 感受性

🇫🇷 sensibilités

🇪🇸 sensibilidades

🇹🇷 hassasiyetler

🇰🇷 민감성

🇸🇦 حساسيات

🇨🇿 citlivosti

🇸🇰 citlivosti

🇨🇳 敏感性

🇸🇮 občutljivosti

🇮🇸 næmni

🇰🇿 сезімталдықтар

🇬🇪 მგრძნობელობები

🇦🇿 həssaslıqlar

🇲🇽 sensibilidades

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,710, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17707 pervading
17708 convulsive
17709 tuft
17710 sensitivities
17711 starry
17712 restorative
17713 dwindled
...