at this sensitive time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at this sensitive time" is grammatically and usage-correct.
You can use it when you wish to refer to a time period of heightened awareness, caution, or delicacy. For example, "With the current national unrest, it is important to approach conversations with care and sensitivity, especially at this sensitive time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Was it wise at this sensitive time?

The Guardian

Ennahda called on all parties to show "responsibility and restraint at this sensitive time".

The New York Times

James suspects that the Falklands government simply didn't want his baby born on the island at this sensitive time.

The Guardian

In a statement, Pearson said: "We apologise to schools, teachers, parents and pupils for this error at this sensitive time.

The Guardian

"Panahi is now exactly in the most creative phase of his life and by silencing him at this sensitive time, they are killing his art and talent.

The Guardian

It is distressing to read that thoughtless criminals continue to threaten lives and property at this sensitive time for America, while trying to justify their conduct with purported concern for the environment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"It is highly inappropriate and counter-constructive for the U.S. to make such a move at this highly sensitive time".

The New York Times

It is not desirable for the South Korean government to deploy THAAD hastily at this politically sensitive time with the presidential election, without going through the democratic process, an environmental assessment or a public hearing.

The Washington Post

The trend reflects the fact that many unions are cash-strapped and short of staff, but this comes at a sensitive time.

The Guardian

The Times then published a front-page story about the business dealings of the daughter of Wen Jiabao, prime minister until this year, whose family wealth was the subject of the paper's original exposé.All of this comes at a sensitive time.

The Economist

The king can declare a state of emergency, if it is endorsed by two-thirds of the National Assembly, but his person remains sacrosanct and he is above the law.All this comes at a sensitive time for Bhutan.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific context and choose synonyms if "at this sensitive time" feels overused or doesn't quite capture the nuance you intend.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "at this sensitive time", as it can become a cliché. Vary your language by using alternatives such as "during this delicate period" or "under the present circumstances" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

Prepositional phrases like "at this sensitive time" typically function as adverbs, modifying verbs, adjectives, or clauses. Here, it sets a temporal context, indicating when something is particularly relevant or requires special consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its common and grammatically correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at this sensitive time" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression, particularly within news and media contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively signals the need for heightened awareness or caution. While versatile, overuse can lead to redundancy. Consider leveraging alternative phrases such as "during this delicate period" or "in the current climate" to maintain writing freshness and precision. By varying your phrasing, you can communicate nuances more effectively while avoiding clichés.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during this delicate period

Replaces 'sensitive time' with 'delicate period', emphasizing fragility.

at this critical juncture

Emphasizes the importance of the current point in time.

during this pivotal moment

Similar to 'at this critical juncture', highlighting significance.

in the current climate

Shifts focus to the prevailing atmosphere or conditions.

under the present circumstances

Highlights the existing situation influencing events.

given the present situation

Similar to 'under the present circumstances', but slightly more concise.

considering the current environment

Focuses on the external conditions affecting decision-making.

in these trying times

Emphasizes the difficulty and hardship of the period.

with the world as it is today

Broadens the scope to encompass the current global state.

now more than ever

Highlights an increased urgency or importance.

FAQs

How can I use "at this sensitive time" in a sentence?

You can use "at this sensitive time" to highlight the need for care and understanding in a specific situation. For example, "The company needs to be extra cautious with its public statements at this sensitive time."

What are some alternatives to "at this sensitive time"?

You can use alternatives like "during this delicate period", "in the current climate", or "given the present situation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "at this sensitive time" formal or informal?

"At this sensitive time" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It is suitable for news reports, business communications, and academic writing, but might sound somewhat stiff in very casual conversation.

Which is correct: "at this sensitive time" or "in this sensitive time"?

"At this sensitive time" is the correct and more commonly used phrase. "In this sensitive time" is less idiomatic and may sound awkward to native English speakers.