be more sensitive to

USAGE SUMMARY

"be more sensitive to" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to express the idea of being more considerate or understanding of someone's feelings or needs. Example: "In order to create a harmonious work environment, we should all strive to be more sensitive to our colleagues' perspectives and needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They tend to be more sensitive to downturns.

The Economist

Mr. Bailey used to be more sensitive to realism.

The New York Times

But in the current environment, they seem to be more sensitive to public shaming.

The New York Times

Our athletes are swaggering less and trying to be more sensitive to other athletes.

The New York Times

Now I am thinking I should be more sensitive to sports memorabilia.

The New Yorker

Are these children really doomed to be more sensitive to pain their entire lives?

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Dopp said he would try to be "more sensitive" to reporters' needs.

The New York Times

And children may be more sensitive to the effects of these hazardous chemicals than adults.

The Guardian

Women seem to be more sensitive to higher frequencies, becoming less so with age.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Yael's story suggests that some people might be more sensitive to nightmares than others.

The New Yorker

Siegel also insists that businesses should be more sensitive to the needs of pregnant employees.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be more sensitive to", consider the specific context and audience to ensure your message is received with the intended level of empathy and understanding. Being specific about what you're encouraging sensitivity towards can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "be more sensitive to" without specifying what the sensitivity should be directed towards. Vague statements can lead to misinterpretation and may not effectively communicate your intended message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be more sensitive to" functions as an infinitive phrase used to express a recommendation, suggestion, or directive. It often appears in contexts where a change in behavior or attitude is being encouraged. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its broad applicability across diverse domains, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

9%

Social Media

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be more sensitive to" is a commonly used infinitive phrase that encourages increased awareness, consideration, and empathy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. It's seen across diverse contexts from news and media to science and business. To use the phrase effectively, provide specific context to avoid vagueness and ensure your message is clear. Alternative phrases like "show greater consideration for" or "become more attuned to" can provide nuance in different situations. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can use "be more sensitive to" to create more thoughtful and impactful communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pay closer attention to

Highlights the act of focusing more intently on something.

show greater consideration for

Focuses on demonstrating more thoughtfulness and care.

exercise greater empathy towards

Emphasizes understanding and sharing the feelings of others.

become more attuned to

Suggests a process of becoming more synchronized and responsive.

adopt a more understanding approach to

Stresses the implementation of a more compassionate perspective.

demonstrate heightened responsiveness to

Highlights an increased level of reaction and attention.

cultivate greater awareness of

Focuses on developing a deeper understanding and attentiveness.

foster a deeper understanding of

Focuses on nurturing a more profound and thorough comprehension.

exhibit increased attentiveness toward

Highlights the act of paying closer attention.

develop a keener appreciation for

Emphasizes growing respect and understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "be more sensitive to" in a sentence?

You can use "be more sensitive to" to suggest a heightened awareness or understanding, as in, "The company needs to "be more sensitive to" its employees' needs".

What's a more formal alternative to "be more sensitive to"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "show greater consideration for" or "exercise greater empathy towards" as alternatives.

Which is the correct preposition: "sensitive to" or "sensitive of"?

"Sensitive to" is the correct and commonly used preposition. "Sensitive of" is less frequent and may imply a different nuance, such as being aware of something.

What does it mean to "be more attuned to" something, and how is it different from "be more sensitive to"?

"Become more attuned to" suggests a process of becoming more synchronized or responsive to something, while ""be more sensitive to"" implies an increased awareness and consideration of feelings or needs. The former is about alignment, the latter about empathy.