are less sensitive to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are less sensitive to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reduced level of sensitivity or responsiveness to a particular stimulus or condition. Example: "Individuals with certain conditions are less sensitive to pain compared to those without."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

ECoG devices are less sensitive to movement.

MIT Technology Review

Other developers are less sensitive to public opinion.

The Guardian - Money

"Men are less sensitive to such things'" he explained.

Independent

Recently he took up olives and figs, "which resist drought and are less sensitive to weather".

The New York Times

Other people are less sensitive to possible threats and pay higher costs when hazards occur.

The Guardian

Some people are more accident-prone than others, and some are less sensitive to threats.

The Guardian - Tech

Cones are less sensitive to light, but are used to see colour.

Independent

SOME companies, it seems, are less sensitive to the global downturn than others.

The Economist

Military users are less sensitive to price, weight and power constraints.

The Economist

Strong liquid acids are less sensitive to FFAs and can simultaneously conduct esterification and transesterification reactions.

Catalysis Today

For those structures which are less sensitive to dynamic effects, a simplified method is presented.

Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are less sensitive to", ensure the context clearly defines what is causing the reduced sensitivity and the specific implications. This adds precision and clarity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "are less sensitive to" when complete insensitivity is implied. The phrase suggests a reduction in sensitivity, not a total absence of it. If complete insensitivity is meant, consider using "are immune to" or "are unaffected by".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are less sensitive to" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a reduced degree of responsiveness or susceptibility. Ludwig shows that it is often used to compare the sensitivity of different entities to the same stimulus.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

28%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Unknown

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are less sensitive to" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate a reduced level of responsiveness or susceptibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in various contexts. Predominantly found in scientific and news-related content, this phrase effectively communicates comparative differences in reaction. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what causes the reduction in sensitivity and avoid implying complete insensitivity. Alternatives like "are more resistant to" or "are not as affected by" can provide nuanced variations depending on the intended meaning. Remember to consider the context to select the most appropriate phrasing and provide a clear understanding of the described phenomenon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are not as affected by

Focuses on the lack of impact rather than sensitivity.

exhibit reduced susceptibility to

More formal and scientific way of expressing reduced sensitivity.

show decreased responsiveness to

Emphasizes a diminished reaction to a stimulus.

are more resistant to

Highlights the ability to withstand or endure something.

are less reactive to

Focuses on the diminished chemical or physical response.

are not easily influenced by

Highlights the difficulty in altering or swaying something.

demonstrate a lower sensitivity towards

A more verbose and formal alternative.

are fairly immune to

Implies a strong level of protection or insensitivity.

have a higher tolerance for

Highlights the increased ability to endure something without negative effects.

are not particularly vulnerable to

Focuses on the lack of weakness or exposure to something.

FAQs

What does "are less sensitive to" mean?

The phrase "are less sensitive to" indicates a reduced level of responsiveness or susceptibility to something. This suggests that the subject is not as easily affected by a particular stimulus or condition compared to something else.

How can I use "are less sensitive to" in a sentence?

You can use "are less sensitive to" to compare the reactions of different subjects to a stimulus. For example: "Plants grown in shade "are less sensitive to drought" than those grown in direct sunlight."

What are some alternatives to saying "are less sensitive to"?

Alternatives include "are more resistant to", "are not as affected by", or "show decreased responsiveness to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "are less sensitive to" or "are insensitive to"?

"Are less sensitive to" indicates a reduced level of sensitivity, while "are insensitive to" implies a complete lack of sensitivity. The correct choice depends on the specific context and the degree of responsiveness you want to describe.