Sensitivity: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to the ability to perceive or respond to stimuli or emotions. It can be used both physically (like skin sensitivity) and emotionally.

• The sensitivity of her skin makes her prone to allergic reactions.
• He showed great sensitivity when dealing with her grief.

Use this word when referring to how easily someone or something is affected by external factors. It often has a negative connotation, implying a weakness or vulnerability.

• His susceptibility to colds is due to a weak immune system.
• The plant's susceptibility to drought is a major concern.

This word is appropriate when focusing on the ability to respond quickly and positively. It often implies an active and timely reaction.

• Customer service should exhibit high responsiveness to inquiries.
• The software's responsiveness to user input is impressive.

This word is best used when talking about the knowledge or perception of a situation or fact. It does not usually imply an emotional response.

• Raising awareness about climate change is crucial.
• She has a strong awareness of her surroundings.

Use in situations where awareness and responsiveness to emotions or situations is required. It can refer to both positive and negative aspects. It implies being easily affected by others' emotions or external factors.

• His sensitivity to loud noises made him uncomfortable at the concert
• She showed great sensitivity to her friend's feelings after the loss

Implies the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It involves putting oneself in someone else's shoes. It is a positive attribute and is important in forming strong personal connections.

• She could feel his pain because of her strong empathy
• The teacher's empathy helped her understand the challenges her students faced

Related to showing deep sympathy and concern for others' suffering. It often involves a desire to help or alleviate the pain. It's seen as a very positive quality.

• Her compassion for the homeless led her to volunteer at the shelter
• The doctor treated his patients with great compassion

Refers to the ability to comprehend situations, feelings, or facts. It can be used more broadly than empathy, as it doesn't necessarily involve sharing the same feelings but rather acknowledging them.

• His understanding of her situation allowed him to support her in the right way
• They discussed their issues with a mutual understanding that improved their relationship

Use this word when talking about someone who is easily affected by emotions, feelings, or has an acute perception of things around them. It can also refer to someone's ability to understand and respond to the feelings of others. It is often used in both positive and neutral contexts.

• She showed great sensitivity to her friend's needs
• The equipment's sensitivity allowed it to detect even the smallest changes

This word is most appropriate for describing gentle, kind, and caring feelings or actions. It can refer to a physical feeling, such as soreness, but more commonly it refers to emotional warmth and affection.

• The tenderness in her voice was comforting
• After the surgery, he experienced tenderness in the affected area

This word is best used when referring to something that can easily break or is delicate. It can also be used metaphorically to describe emotional or mental states that are easily disrupted or harmed. It often has a slightly negative connotation because it implies weakness.

• The fragility of the antique vase made it hard to transport
• After the accident, he could sense the fragility in his mental state

This word should be used when referring to a state of being open to attack, harm, damage, or emotional hurt. It often carries a negative connotation as it implies being exposed and potentially defenseless.

• Her vulnerability made her a target for manipulation
• The vulnerability of the security system was a major concern