What is sensitive? Pronunciation and usage in English

sensitive means . Learn how to pronounce and use sensitive through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of sensitive

sensitiveadjective

/ˈsɛnsɪtɪv/
Definition & pronunciation of sensitive

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "sensitive" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "Sen-": This part sounds like "sen" in "sense" (as in, "make sense"). It's a short, quick vowel sound.
  • "-sive": This is the tricky part. It’s a diphthong – meaning it’s a combination of two vowel sounds blended together. In this case, it sounds like "siv" (like “silver”) followed by a short "ee" sound.

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced something like: “sen-sə-tiv”

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of each syllable:

  • Sen: /sən/ (Think “sun” but with a shorter "u" sound)
  • sə: This is a schwa sound – a very weak, unstressed vowel. It’s like the "a" in "about." It’s very short and often almost disappears. This syllable is the one most learners struggle with.
  • tiv: /tɪv/ (Like “tin” followed by “ve.”)

Tips for Getting it Right:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable ("sen").
  • Practice the "sə" sound: This is key. Don’t pronounce it as “sive.” It's a very short, neutral vowel. Think of it like a slight pause or an almost silent "uh" sound.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "sensitive" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/sensitive/ - This website offers pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce sensitive" on YouTube – you'll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

To summarize, it’s roughly: “sen-sə-tiv”

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some more example words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word sensitive in English

Let's break down how to use the word "sensitive" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings, so understanding the context is key. Here's a breakdown of its common uses, with examples:

1. Feeling Easily Affected (Emotionally):

  • Meaning: This is the most common usage. It describes someone who's easily moved by emotions – happiness, sadness, anger, etc. They can be deeply affected by things others might brush off.
  • Examples:
    • "She's a very sensitive person and gets upset easily."
    • "He's incredibly sensitive to criticism."
    • “Don’t be so sensitive, it’s just a joke!”
    • "I try to be understanding of her sensitive nature."

2. Responsive to Stimuli (Physically/Technically):

  • Meaning: Here, "sensitive" means capable of detecting or responding to changes in its environment.
  • Examples:
    • "This camera is very sensitive to light." (Photographic)
    • "The measuring device is highly sensitive to temperature changes." (Scientific)
    • "His skin is sensitive to the sun." (Medical/Physical)
    • “The sensor is very sensitive, so be careful not to bump it.”

3. Careful Not to Offend (Regarding Words/Behavior):

  • Meaning: This usage refers to being aware of and avoiding causing hurt feelings or offense. It’s about tact and consideration.
  • Examples:
    • "It's important to be sensitive to other people's cultures and beliefs."
    • “She’s always trying to be sensitive in her writing.”
    • "You need to be sensitive to their feelings during this difficult time."
    • "He’s a very sensitive colleague and always mindful of his words.”

4. (Adjective describing a topic) - Delicate/Careful Subject:

  • Meaning: Used to describe a topic that requires careful handling or discussion.
  • Examples:
    • "This is a sensitive issue that needs to be handled with care."
    • "Let's avoid discussing that sensitive topic at the meeting."
    • "He brought up a sensitive point that made her uncomfortable."

Key Considerations & Related Words:

  • Synonyms: Depending on the context, you could use words like: vulnerable, empathetic, tactful, cautious, perceptive, receptive.
  • Antonyms: insensitive, oblivious, thick-skinned.
  • Adverbs: You can modify "sensitive" with adverbs like: very sensitive, highly sensitive, too sensitive.

Tips for Using "Sensitive" Effectively:

  • Context is Crucial: Pay attention to what's being discussed to determine the correct meaning.
  • Be Specific: Consider adding extra words to clarify your meaning (e.g., "emotionally sensitive," "technically sensitive").

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • In what kind of situation are you thinking of using the word "sensitive"? (e.g., describing a person, talking about a topic, a technical product?)

Synonyms for the word sensitive

Practice with vocabulary sensitive

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Handling customer financial data requires extreme care due to its highly ____________ nature.
  2. The new regulations address several environmentally ____________ areas that are prone to pollution.
  3. The antique porcelain vase was incredibly ____________ and needed to be handled with the utmost care.
  4. She is very ____________ to the needs of her team members, always offering support when required.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (Select all that apply)

  1. Which words describe a person who easily gets upset or is very aware of others' feelings? a) Callous b) Emotional c) Sensitive d) Thoughtless

  2. Which terms could describe a highly accurate scientific instrument that detects minute changes? a) Crude b) Precise c) Sensitive d) Robust

  3. When discussing a topic that could easily offend or upset people, it is considered: a) Trivial b) Controversial c) Sensitive d) Objective

  4. He has a keen eye for detail and is very good at noticing subtle differences in artwork. Which word best describes this quality? a) Oblivious b) Observant c) Perceptive d) Indifferent

  5. The old bridge, weakened by years of erosion, was declared too ____________ for heavy traffic. a) Sturdy b) Resilient c) Fragile d) Robust

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: Because of the confidential information, we need to ensure all our communications are secure. Rewrite using "sensitive":
  2. Original: Her strong reaction to criticism showed that she takes negative feedback to heart. Rewrite using a form of "sensitive":
  3. Original: The rare plant species is easily harmed by changes in temperature and humidity. Rewrite using a suitable replacement word (not "sensitive"):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Handling customer financial data requires extreme care due to its highly sensitive nature.
  2. The new regulations address several environmentally sensitive areas that are prone to pollution.
  3. The antique porcelain vase was incredibly fragile and needed to be handled with the utmost care.
  4. She is very responsive to the needs of her team members, always offering support when required.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Emotional, c) Sensitive
  2. b) Precise, c) Sensitive
  3. b) Controversial, c) Sensitive
  4. b) Observant, c) Perceptive
  5. c) Fragile

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Rewrite using "sensitive": Because of the sensitive information, we need to ensure all our communications are secure.
  2. Rewrite using a form of "sensitive": Her strong reaction to criticism showed her sensitivity to negative feedback. (or: Her strong reaction to criticism showed how sensitively she takes negative feedback.)
  3. Rewrite using a suitable replacement word (not "sensitive"): The rare plant species is easily vulnerable to changes in temperature and humidity.

Comment ()