a sensitive period for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensitive period for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific time frame during which certain experiences or developments are particularly impactful or important. Example: "During early childhood, there is a sensitive period for language acquisition that can significantly influence a child's ability to learn new languages later in life."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 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

"Despite criticism by some that 'proof' of a sensitive period for bonding between parent and baby has not been shown, the authors have continued to fight for a more humane atmosphere in hospitals at the time of delivery," Dr. Brazelton wrote, "including time for early attachment behavior between a new parent and baby.

The New York Times - Health

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

SEP

It is also consistent with the idea, which seems more plausible than the critical period hypothesis, that there is a sensitive period for language acquisition — a time, from roughly birth age 1 to age 6 or 7, in which language is acquired most easily and naturally, and when a native-like outcome is virtually guaranteed.

SEP

The records point to breaches during a sensitive period for the Fed, which was ramping up aid for the struggling U.S. economy by buying massive quantities of U.S. government debt and mortgage-backed securities.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

"This is a very sensitive period for us in Hong Kong because this is a period where there may be some of these corona viruses that may possibly come to Hong Kong," Dr. Yeoh warned.

The New York Times

In 20 years it will be acknowledged that was a very sensitive period for the club.

BBC

The early (fetal and neonatal) developmental environment has been proposed as a key sensitive period for increasing susceptibility to adult-onset obesity [2].

Plosone

Adolescence is generally a particular sensitive period for family problems [ 29].

European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Poorer school entry academic skills may be difficult to compensate for later in life because early childhood is a particularly sensitive period for brain formation (Heckman, 2006; Naudeau, Kataoka, Valerio, Neuman, & Kennedy Elder, 2011).

Child Development

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sensitive period for", clearly define the timeframe you are referring to and the specific development or influence that is most impactful during that time.

Common error

Avoid using "a sensitive period for" without specifying what the period is sensitive to. Be specific about the potential outcomes or influences during this time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensitive period for" functions as a qualifier, specifying a timeframe during which particular experiences or exposures have a heightened impact on development or other processes. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which showcase its use in various scientific and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

78%

News & Media

18%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sensitive period for" is used to denote a specific timeframe where certain experiences or developments have a disproportionately significant impact. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It commonly appears in scientific and news contexts, emphasizing the importance of timing in fields like developmental biology and psychology. When using the phrase, it's crucial to clearly define the timeframe and the specific process being influenced. Alternatives like "a critical window for" or "a crucial time for" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical window for

This alternative highlights the importance and limited duration of the period.

a sensitive window for

Combines the concepts of sensitivity and limited duration.

a crucial phase for

Emphasizes the decisive nature of the time frame.

a key stage for

Focuses on the significance of the period as a developmental milestone.

an opportune time for

Suggests that the period presents a favorable opportunity for a specific outcome.

a formative period for

Highlights the impact of the period on shaping future development.

a receptive period for

Focuses on the increased openness to external stimuli or learning during the period.

a prime time for

Suggests the period is the most suitable or advantageous for a particular purpose.

a vulnerable time for

Emphasizes the susceptibility to negative influences during the period.

a teachable moment for

Implies the period is uniquely suited for learning or imparting knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "a sensitive period for" in a sentence?

Use "a sensitive period for" to describe a specific time frame when an organism is particularly susceptible to certain environmental influences or experiences, such as, "Early childhood is "a sensitive period for" language acquisition".

What's the difference between "a sensitive period for" and "a critical period for"?

While both terms refer to specific timeframes, "a critical period for" implies a more rigid and irreversible developmental window, while "a sensitive period for" suggests a timeframe where experiences have a greater impact, but later experiences can still modify development.

What can I say instead of "a sensitive period for"?

You can use alternatives like "a crucial time for", "a key stage for", or "a formative period for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it accurate to say there is "a sensitive period for" everything?

No, not all developmental processes or skills have clearly defined sensitive periods. The concept applies when specific experiences or exposures have a disproportionately large impact during a particular timeframe.