sensitive
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈsɛnsɪtɪv/
KK: /ˈsɛnsɪtɪv/
adjective
Definition
Easily affected by external factors or emotions; quick to respond to feelings or changes.
Example
She is very sensitive to criticism and often feels hurt by it.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more sensitive
Superlative: most sensitive
Conversation
I noticed you got a bit upset about that comment earlier.
Yeah, I guess I'm just sensitive about those things.
It's okay to feel that way; some topics are just tough.
True, I just wish I weren't so sensitive sometimes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
delicate
tender
responsive
Antonyms
insensitive
unfeeling
indifferent
noun
Definition
A person who is easily affected by emotions or external influences, often having heightened awareness or feelings.
Example
She is known to be a sensitive, caring individual who understands others' feelings.
Conversation
I think Sarah is a bit of a sensitive when it comes to her emotions.
Yeah, she really feels things deeply, doesn't she?
It's interesting how some people are just more sensitive than others.
Root Explanation
Sensitive → It is formed from "sens" (from Latin "sensus", meaning feeling or perception) and "-ive" (meaning having the quality of). The word "sensitive" describes having the quality of feeling or being easily affected by external stimuli.
Memory Tip
Think of 'sensus' which relates to feeling, and remember that 'sensitive' means having a strong ability to feel or react to things.
Visually Confused Words
unsensitive
insensitive
nonsensitive
splenitive
lenitive
genitive
oversensitive
unsensitize