a sensitive period

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensitive period" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific time frame in which an individual is particularly receptive to certain experiences or learning opportunities. Example: "During early childhood, there is a sensitive period for language acquisition, making it easier for children to learn new languages."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Adolescence has been proposed as a period of hyper sensitivity to the social environment [2] and a sensitive period for the onset of mental health problems [3].

European Neuropsychopharmacology

In particular, adolescence may be a sensitive period for the development of diabetes given the substantial decreases in insulin sensitivity associated with pubertal development (8).

Diabetes Care

Farah said her results were evidence for the existence of a sensitive period, early in a person's life, that determined the optimal development of the cortex.

The Guardian

One of them told me that Kurds had waited to march because it was a "sensitive period," referring to ongoing peace negotiations.

The New Yorker

The detention of Mr Gambira, and its nocturnal nature, will be of deep concern to observers of Burma as the country enters a sensitive period of change.

Independent

The accounting question has served to refocus attention on a sensitive period of Mr. Giuliani's life: his affair with Mrs. Nathan during his marriage, and the ensuing public break-up of that marriage.

The New York Times

Detentions and convictions of activists have increased sharply since Xi Jinping became China's leader two years ago and the women were seized during annual political meetings in Beijing, which tends to be a sensitive period.

The Guardian

Imprinting, like song learning, involves a sensitive period during which the young animal must be exposed to a model, and the learning that occurs at this time may not affect behaviour until some later date.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Like goslings, people have a sensitive period during which they are predisposed to learn a particular thing.Recognising their mothers is something that only a few creatures need to do.

The Economist

There is thus a sensitive period during which they must hear their species' song if they are to develop normally, but it is important to note that they do not themselves sing at all during the first autumn.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What does the existence of a sensitive period for language mastery tell us about the innateness of language?

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing developmental psychology or biology, use "a sensitive period" to accurately convey the idea that certain experiences have a heightened impact during a specific timeframe. Be precise about the timeframe and the factors that make it sensitive.

Common error

Avoid using "sensitive period" interchangeably with "critical period". "Critical period" implies a fixed, irreversible window, while "sensitive period" suggests a time of heightened plasticity, where influences are more impactful but not necessarily determinative. Choosing the right term depends on the scientific or theoretical context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensitive period" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific duration where heightened responsiveness to stimuli or experiences occurs. Ludwig AI affirms its correct and usable nature, highlighting its role in describing these critical timeframes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Unknown

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sensitive period" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term to describe a timeframe of heightened susceptibility to certain experiences or stimuli. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is accurate and well-suited for formal and scientific contexts. The examples provided by Ludwig highlight its prevalence in describing developmental stages in biology, psychology, and other related fields. While related terms such as "a critical window" or "a crucial stage" exist, it is vital to understand the nuances between them, especially when distinguishing it from the term "critical period". Utilizing it correctly can significantly enhance clarity and precision in writing, especially in academic or scientific settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a receptive period

Focuses on the heightened receptivity to stimuli or learning during the period.

a critical window

Emphasizes the limited time frame and importance of the period, similar to a window of opportunity.

a crucial stage

Focuses on the importance of the stage in development or a process.

an opportune moment

Highlights the favorable nature of the timing for a particular event or development.

a formative time

Stresses the influence the period has on shaping future development.

a key phase

Indicates a significant phase within a larger process.

a vulnerable time

Highlights the susceptibility to certain influences or risks during the period.

a developmental stage

More specifically refers to a stage of development, often in biology or psychology.

a prime time

Emphasizes the peak suitability of the period for something.

a strategic moment

Highlights the importance of the period for strategic action or planning.

FAQs

What does "a sensitive period" mean?

The phrase "a sensitive period" refers to a specific time in development when an organism is more susceptible to environmental influences or experiences. It's a period of heightened plasticity where certain stimuli can have a significant impact.

How does "a sensitive period" differ from "a critical period"?

"A sensitive period" implies a time of heightened plasticity but with some flexibility, while a "critical period" suggests a more rigid and irreversible window of opportunity for development. The effects during "a critical period" are considered to be more permanent.

In what contexts is "a sensitive period" commonly used?

The term "a sensitive period" is frequently used in developmental psychology, neuroscience, and biology to describe specific times when an organism is particularly responsive to certain stimuli, such as language acquisition, sensory development, or social bonding.

Can you give an example of "a sensitive period"?

A classic example is the sensitive period for language acquisition in early childhood. During this time, children are exceptionally adept at learning new languages. However, it doesn't mean language learning is impossible later, just that it might be more challenging compared to learning it during "early childhood".