gross insensitivity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gross insensitivity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or behavior that shows a lack of awareness or concern for the feelings of others, often in a serious or extreme manner. Example: "His comments during the meeting displayed a gross insensitivity to the struggles faced by the employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

He continued to write with gross insensitivity about Africans.

The Guardian

He said: "BBC1 stands indicted for gross insensitivity while the army's conducting difficult and dangerous operations in Afghanistan".

The Guardian

Later Kennedy would say the hearings created a "clear and convincing case to gross insensitivity to the questions of race" on the part of Sessions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Conservationists who had been negotiating for the property as green space accused the company of gross insensitivity for failing to notify them of the other offer.

The New York Times

But the Palestinians outside fumed at what they called the gross insensitivity of holding such an event at a volatile time.

The New York Times

Those who argue the opposite, pointing to the survival thanks to modern medicine of people who would previously have died, are guilty of more than just gross insensitivity.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

What should be done, in a litigious society, about accusations of gross pastoral insensitivity?

The New York Times

Hemlines change, ateliers crumble and designers get disgraced, but there is, it seems, one fashion constant: the industry's capacity for gross cultural insensitivity.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While noting that Sargent was on good personal terms with his many Jewish patrons, she concluded that he "can justifiably be accused of gross cultural blindness and insensitivity".

The New York Times - Arts

Hence the relative insensitivity of gross mechanical measurement methods may explain the current lack of consensus with regard to mechanical consequences of diabetes in large arteries [8,52].

Acta Biomaterialia

A contact transmission proportion of 8.5% (8 persons of the 94 participants had contaminated hands) is high, when one considers the insensitivity of the measure (gross fluorescence) and the number of persons possibly exposed at a county fairs.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gross insensitivity", ensure the context clearly demonstrates a significant and unacceptable lack of consideration or awareness. Use it to highlight actions or statements that are notably insensitive and likely to cause offense or harm.

Common error

Avoid using "gross insensitivity" to describe minor oversights or unintentional slights. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the lack of sensitivity is severe and clearly demonstrable. Overusing it can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "gross insensitivity" is to act as a noun phrase that describes a particular quality or characteristic. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is generally used to characterize actions, statements, or behaviors that demonstrate a notable lack of consideration or empathy.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Gross insensitivity" is a phrase used to describe a significant and unacceptable lack of consideration or empathy towards others. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it should be reserved for situations where the lack of sensitivity is particularly egregious. Common across various media, the phrase is effectively used to express disapproval of insensitive actions or statements. Alternatives include "extreme insensitivity" and "blatant disrespect". When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly warrants its strong connotation to avoid diminishing its impact. It's a valuable tool for highlighting and condemning actions that demonstrate a severe disregard for the feelings and needs of others.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extreme insensitivity

Emphasizes the severity of the lack of sensitivity.

flagrant disregard

Highlights the open and obvious nature of the lack of consideration.

blatant disrespect

Focuses on the disrespect shown through insensitive actions.

profound lack of empathy

Stresses the absence of understanding and sharing the feelings of others.

outrageous disregard for feelings

Emphasizes the shock and offense caused by the insensitivity.

unpardonable tactlessness

Highlights the lack of skill and sensitivity in dealing with others.

appalling callousness

Focuses on the cruel and heartless nature of the insensitivity.

severe lack of consideration

Highlights the significant absence of thoughtfulness and care.

shocking lack of awareness

Emphasizes the surprising absence of understanding a situation.

egregious emotional negligence

Highlights the failure to provide adequate emotional care or attention.

FAQs

What does "gross insensitivity" mean?

"Gross insensitivity" refers to a significant and unacceptable lack of consideration or awareness towards others' feelings or circumstances. It implies a severe form of tactlessness or disregard.

How can I use "gross insensitivity" in a sentence?

You might say, "The company's decision to lay off employees right before the holidays showed a "gross insensitivity" to their needs" or "His remarks about her appearance displayed a "gross insensitivity" and were deeply hurtful."

What are some alternatives to "gross insensitivity"?

Alternatives include "extreme insensitivity", "blatant disrespect", or "profound lack of empathy", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "gross insensitivity" a formal or informal term?

"Gross insensitivity" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's generally reserved for situations where the lack of sensitivity is significant and warrants a strong term. It is suitable for news articles, academic papers, and general conversation when describing serious insensitivity.