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sensitivity — the quality of being easily affected by changes or stimuli

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: the quality of being easily affected by changes or stimuli

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌsensəˈtɪvəti/

Example Sentences

  • My vampire friend's sun sensitivity makes beach parties awkward.
  • The noise sensitivity of our neighbor is so extreme that even our goldfish swimming creates complaints.
  • Teachers need sensitivity when dealing with students' diverse backgrounds.

sensitivity

NOUN

[/ˌsensəˈtɪvəti/]

the quality of being easily affected by changes or stimuli

Her sensitivity to the patient's mood helped her notice his hidden worry.
💡 Concept

Her sensitivity to the patient's mood helped her notice his hidden worry.

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˌsensəˈtɪvəti/
🇬🇧 UK/ˌsensɪˈtɪvəti/

🌳Etymology

Rootsens-
Suffix--itiv-ity

Origin

Sensitivity derives from the Latin verb sentire, meaning 'to feel or perceive,' which passed through Middle French before entering English. The word evolved to denote the capacity to perceive or respond to subtle stimuli with refined awareness.

Breakdown

sentire (Latin: to feel) + -ive (adjective suffix indicating capability) + -ity (noun suffix indicating state or quality), forming the abstract noun describing the quality of being sensitive.

🎵Rhyme

activity
creativity
nativity

🔗Collocations

price sensitivity
cultural sensitivity
high sensitivity
sensitivity training
show sensitivity
lack sensitivity

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“My vampire friend's sun sensitivity makes beach parties awkward.”

😄 Fun example

“The noise sensitivity of our neighbor is so extreme that even our goldfish swimming creates complaints.”

“Teachers need sensitivity when dealing with students' diverse backgrounds.”

“The camera's light sensitivity allows for stunning night photography.”

📚Related Words

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