Meaning
- Sensitive means easily affected by external factors such as emotions, criticism, pain, or environmental changes.
- It can also mean being able to detect or respond quickly to slight changes or signals.
Grammar and Usage
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Part of speech: adjective
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Used to describe people, feelings, body parts, equipment, or topics.
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Common sentence structures:
- "be sensitive to + noun" → She is sensitive to criticism.
- "highly/very sensitive" → emphasizes degree.
- "sensitive issue/matter" → delicate or difficult subject.
Common Phrases
- sensitive skin – skin that reacts easily to irritants
- sensitive issue – a delicate or controversial matter
- sensitive information – private or confidential data
- emotionally sensitive – easily hurt or moved by feelings
- sensitive equipment – able to detect small changes
Collocations
- verb + sensitive: become sensitive, remain sensitive, feel sensitive
- adverb + sensitive: very sensitive, highly sensitive, overly sensitive
- noun + sensitive: sensitive topic, sensitive data, sensitive reaction
Examples
- He is very sensitive to criticism and gets upset easily.
- This sunscreen is designed for people with sensitive skin.
- That’s a sensitive topic, so be careful how you discuss it.
- The microphone is extremely sensitive and picks up the smallest sounds.
- She has a sensitive nature and often cries during sad movies.
- Handle this sensitive information with care.
- His eyes are sensitive to bright light.
- The negotiations involve a sensitive matter that requires tact.
Synonyms or Related
- delicate
- fragile
- tender
- responsive
- emotional
- vulnerable
- perceptive