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Definition sensitive in British English

sensitive adjective

adjective
/ˈsensətɪv/

Sensible describes the reasonable way in which you think about things or do things: a sensible suggestionIt wouldn’t be sensible to start all over again now.

Sensitive describes the emotional way in which you react to things: He has always been a sensitive child.I didn’t realize she was so sensitive about her work.

1

reacting quickly or strongly to something

Example

A new generation of satellites will carry particularly sensitive instruments.

Example

Bats have extremely sensitive ears.

Example

light-sensitive materials

Example

Coral is very sensitive to changes in water temperature.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

likely to become angry or upset easily

Example

If I'd known she was so sensitive, I wouldn't have teased her.

Example

Kyle takes his work seriously and is sensitive to criticism.

Synonyms and related words
2

needing to be protected

Example

Conservationists and farmers in environmentally sensitive areas are learning to work together.

Example

Wear rubber gloves if you have very sensitive skin.

Synonyms and related words
2.1

needing to be kept secret

Example

Some items on the agenda involve commercially sensitive information.

Synonyms and related words
2.2

needing to be dealt with carefully

Example

The issues are controversial and politically sensitive.

Synonyms and related words
3

showing that you care about someone or something and do not want to cause offence

Example

This is a case that needs sensitive and skilful handling.

Example

The police should be more sensitive to the needs of local communities.

Synonyms and related words
Definition sensitive in British English