Definition of Sensitive
Quick Meaning of Sensitive
Noticing small details or changes; easily upset by criticism or unkind words; or reacting easily to physical things like heat or chemicals.
Detailed Definition of Sensitive
Able to perceive small changes or effects; easily hurt or offended emotionally; or responsive to physical stimuli.
How to Pronounce Sensitive
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: SEN-suh-tiv with stress on first syllable. The middle syllable is schwa /ə/ and final is /tɪv/.
Watch out: Sometimes stressed on second syllable sen-SI-tive; correct stress is SEN-sitive.
Origin and Etymology of Sensitive
From Latin "sensitivus" meaning "capable of sensation", from "sensus" (feeling).
How to Use Sensitive in a Sentence
Each example shows “sensitive” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The camera sensor is sensitive to very small amounts of light.”
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“She is very sensitive to criticism and feels hurt easily.”
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“The government considers immigration policy a sensitive political issue.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Sensitive
Common Synonyms for Sensitive
Smart Synonyms for Sensitive — When to Use Each
- delicate
- for things requiring careful handling or attention
- tender
- for emotional sensitivity or physical tenderness
- reactive
- for physical or chemical responsiveness to stimuli
Common Collocations with Sensitive
These phrases pair with “sensitive” in everyday English:
- sensitive skin
- sensitive issue
- sensitive information
- sensitive to light
- highly sensitive
Common Mistakes When Using Sensitive
Even fluent speakers slip up with “sensitive”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He was very sensitive with his feelings.
- ✓ Correct: He was very sensitive about his feelings.
- Why: Use "sensitive about" when discussing emotional topics, not "sensitive with".
- ✗ Wrong: The measurements are sensitive for changes.
- ✓ Correct: The measurements are sensitive to changes.
- Why: Use "sensitive to" for physical or technical responsiveness, not "sensitive for".
- ✗ Wrong: This is sensitive material information.
- ✓ Correct: This is sensitive information.
- Why: Do not use "material information"; "sensitive information" alone is sufficient.
Words Confused With Sensitive
- Sensitive vs Sensible: Sensitive means emotionally or physically responsive; sensible means showing good practical judgment. Compare →
Other Forms of Sensitive
- Noun: sensitivity
- Adjective: sensitive
- Adverb: sensitively
Frequently Asked Questions About Sensitive
What is the meaning of "Sensitive"?
Noticing small details or changes; easily upset by criticism or unkind words; or reacting easily to physical things like heat or chemicals.
How do you pronounce "Sensitive"?
The IPA is /ˈsensətɪv/. SEN-suh-tiv with stress on first syllable. The middle syllable is schwa /ə/ and final is /tɪv/.
What part of speech is "Sensitive"?
"Sensitive" is an adjective at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Sensitive"?
Common synonyms include delicate, tender, responsive.
How do you use "Sensitive" in a sentence?
For example: "The camera sensor is sensitive to very small amounts of light."