insensitivity

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌɪn.sɪnˈsɪt.ɪ.vɪ.ti/

KK: /ɪnˌsɛn.sɪˈtɪv.ɪ.ti/

noun

Definition

The state of not being aware of or not caring about the feelings or needs of others.

Example

His insensitivity to her feelings hurt their friendship.

Conversation

Did you hear what Sarah said at the party last night?

Yeah, it was pretty surprising and showed a lot of insensitivity.

I know, right? She really should be more aware of how her words affect others.

Totally! It’s important to be careful about what we say.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

apathy

indifference

callousness

Antonyms

sensitivity

empathy

compassion

Root Explanation

Insensitivity is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "sensus" (from Latin, meaning feeling or perception) and "-ivity" (a suffix indicating a state or condition). The word describes a state of not having feelings or being unresponsive to emotional stimuli.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') feeling or perceiving ('sensus') — that's why insensitivity means a lack of emotional response.

Visually Confused Words