a sensitive subject for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensitive subject for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing topics that may evoke strong emotions or reactions from individuals or groups. Example: "The issue of climate change is a sensitive subject for many people, especially those directly affected by its consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Hillary Clinton is a sensitive subject for McCaskill.

The New Yorker

Immigration has long been a sensitive subject for Australia.

The New York Times

This has been a sensitive subject for the movement.

The New York Times

It's a sensitive subject for leaders of different countries around the world".

The New York Times

It is clearly a sensitive subject for both Google and Yahoo.

The New York Times

The stigma placed on prostitutes by the police and the public is a sensitive subject for Ms. Few.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Ireland, of course, has been a sensitive subject in Britain for many years.

The Guardian - Opinion

Apologising to its customers, a spokesman for Findus UK said: "We understand this is a very sensitive subject for consumers and we would like to reassure you we have reacted immediately.

The Guardian

It was a particularly sensitive subject for new Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney, who built a reputation during his tenure in Congress as a serious deficit hawk unafraid to challenge his Republican colleagues on ballooning war spending.

Huffington Post

"This is obviously a sensitive subject," he added, but as for any concerns for potential abuse, "the standards speak for themselves, particularly as they relate to young people".

The New York Times

The bloody battle for Algerian independence is still a hugely sensitive subject for some French people.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a sensitive subject for", establish context and create a safe space for respectful discussion. Acknowledge potential differing viewpoints to encourage open dialogue.

Common error

Avoid generalizations or sweeping statements when discussing "a sensitive subject for". Instead, focus on specific aspects and nuances to prevent misinterpretations and promote understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensitive subject for" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a noun or pronoun. It highlights the delicate or potentially contentious nature of a topic when it pertains to a particular person or group. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sensitive subject for" is a commonly used phrase to denote topics requiring careful and thoughtful discussion. As highlighted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and appears frequently in News & Media, Academia, Wiki, and Science sources. While its register is generally neutral, it serves as a signal to approach the subject with caution. When using this phrase, acknowledge diverse viewpoints, be specific in your statements, and avoid oversimplifications. Alternative phrases such as "a delicate topic for" or "a tricky issue for" can offer nuances depending on the specific context and intention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delicate topic for

Replaces "sensitive" with "delicate", emphasizing the need for careful handling.

a touchy subject for

Uses "touchy" instead of "sensitive", suggesting the topic might easily cause offense or disagreement.

a tricky issue for

Substitutes "subject" with "issue" and "sensitive" with "tricky", indicating complexity and potential difficulty.

a contentious matter for

Replaces "sensitive subject" with "contentious matter", highlighting the likelihood of disagreement or debate.

a problematic area for

Uses "problematic area" to suggest the subject is causing difficulties or challenges.

a fraught topic for

Emphasizes the tension and anxiety associated with the subject by using the word "fraught".

a difficult subject for

Replaces "sensitive" with "difficult", pointing to the challenges involved in addressing the topic.

a controversial issue for

Highlights the divisive nature of the topic, making it "controversial".

a sore point for

Indicates the topic is likely to cause pain or distress if discussed.

a challenging subject for

Substitutes "sensitive" with "challenging", implying the topic requires effort and skill to navigate.

FAQs

How can I introduce "a sensitive subject for" in a presentation?

Start by acknowledging that the topic may evoke strong feelings. Then, frame the discussion with clear objectives and a commitment to respectful dialogue. For alternatives, consider using terms like "a delicate topic for" or "a touchy subject for" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "a sensitive subject for" and "a controversial issue for"?

"A sensitive subject for" implies that a topic requires careful handling due to potential emotional responses. "A controversial issue for" suggests the topic is likely to spark disagreement and debate. The former focuses on emotional considerations, while the latter emphasizes differing opinions.

What are some situations where I should avoid using "a sensitive subject for"?

Avoid using "a sensitive subject for" when the intent is to dismiss or silence genuine concerns. Instead, address the issue directly and with empathy. If the goal is to highlight potential debate without focusing on emotional sensitivities, consider using "a debatable topic for".

Is "a sensitive subject for" always negative?

Not necessarily. While "a sensitive subject for" often implies potential for discomfort or disagreement, it can also signal the importance of addressing an issue with care and thoughtfulness. This phrase is neutral, the context dictates the real sentiment. For instance, you could say that something is "a challenging subject for" many people.