sensitive - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sensitive Word Meanings
- easily affected or hurt
- responsive to external stimuli
- having a heightened awareness of feelings or situations
sensitive Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sensitive Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsɛnsɪtɪv/
US
/ˈsɛnsɪtɪv/
sensitive Word Etymology
sens- = feel + -itive (suffix indicating tendency or quality). Originated from Latin 'sensitivus', through Old French 'sensible', to English 'sensitive'. Imagine a flower petal responding delicately to the touch.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I hold a cup and gently move it a little, watching the liquid ripple. A breeze slides in and I shift my stance to keep from spilling. I adjust my grip and feel the space between hand and cup tighten, a careful pull on my attention. That habit of noticing tiny nudges stays with me in conversations and in scenes that feel sharp.
Real Context
Sensitive describes something or someone that reacts readily to touch, pain, or external stimuli, and can also refer to people who notice and care about others’ feelings. Physically, a sensitive skin or sensor registers small changes; emotionally, a sensitive person is easily moved or affected by criticism and social situations. It can also mean being aware of delicate contexts and norms, requiring tact. The root sens- means feel, and the suffix -ive marks a tendency or quality, from Latin sensitivus via Old French sensible. A helpful image is a flower petal that responds gently to a light touch.
Usage Reminders
- - Do not confuse sensitive with easily offended; they are related but different meanings.
- - Use be sensitive to for awareness of others' needs or external changes.
- - Distinguish physical sensitivity (skin, sensors) from emotional sensitivity (empathy).
- - Remember the root sens- meaning feel.
- - Pair with tact when discussing delicate topics.
- - Avoid overusing sensitive to describe trivial preferences.
Common Misconceptions
- Sensitive only means being easily offended.
- It always refers to emotions, never to physical things.
- Be sensitive to is the only correct collocation; you cannot say sensitive about.
- Sensible and sensitive are interchangeable.
- A sensitive person is weak or fragile.
Thinking Differences
In English, sensitive spans physical, emotional, and social awareness; learners often confuse it with sensible or easily offended.
Learning Tips
- Create collocations: sensitive to, sensitive about, be sensitive (emotion) vs be sensitive (physical).
- Practice with devices: a sensitive sensor, sensitive skin.
- Distinguish emotional vs physical contexts with examples.
- Remember root sens- means feel; use mnemonic of a flower petal reacting.
- Use tact when talking about delicate topics.
- Watch for common errors with be sensitive to + noun.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which of the following words is the opposite of 'sensitive'?
A.Selfish
B.Insensitive
C.Rude
D.Generous
Step 2: Usage
How would you describe someone who is described as 'sensitive'?
A.Careless
B.Aggressive
C.Pessimistic
D.Empathetic
Step 3: Similar Words
In what context might being 'sensitive' be seen as a positive trait?
A.In a close relationship
B.During a competition
C.During a debate
D.In a video game
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word best describes someone who is easily affected or offended by external influences?
A.Independent
B.Compassionate
C.Resilient
D.Vulnerable
Step 5: Mastery
How can being 'sensitive' impact your interactions with others?
A.It can make you more aggressive
B.It can lead to misunderstandings
C.It can make you seem indifferent
D.It can help in understanding their emotions
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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