highly sensitive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "highly sensitive" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a person, situation, or thing that can be easily influenced or hurt by outside forces. For example: "The highly sensitive situation between the two countries necessitated careful negotiations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You are highly sensitive".

The New Yorker

It is highly sensitive.

The Guardian

Our testing is highly sensitive.

The New York Times

"These things are highly sensitive," he said.

The New Yorker

Still, one highly sensitive matter remains.

The New York Times

Such a suggestion is politically highly sensitive.

The Guardian

Our intelligence services today are highly sensitive.

The New Yorker

It is obviously a highly sensitive one".

The Guardian

Welcoming the Pipedown campaign, she tells Rodgers: "I'm highly sensitive.

The Guardian - Business

Iran also remains highly sensitive towards the issue of conversion.

The Guardian

This figure is highly sensitive to the lengths of service.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person as "highly sensitive", consider providing context or examples to clarify the specific type of sensitivity you are referring to, such as emotional, physical, or environmental.

Common error

Avoid using "highly sensitive" as a blanket term without specifying the area of sensitivity. For example, instead of saying "He's highly sensitive", specify "He's highly sensitive to criticism" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "highly sensitive" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun to indicate a heightened degree of responsiveness or susceptibility. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts, from describing people to technical instruments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "highly sensitive" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe a heightened degree of responsiveness or susceptibility. According to Ludwig, this term appears frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to specify the area of sensitivity when using the phrase. Keep in mind that its meaning can change based on the context, and Ludwig's examples are diverse, from describing people to objects or situations. By providing context or examples, you enhance understanding and prevent overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

particularly vulnerable

Stresses the state of being at risk or susceptible to harm, emphasizing fragility.

exceptionally impressionable

Highlights the ease with which someone can be influenced, especially at a young age.

easily affected

Emphasizes the ease with which something or someone can be influenced or changed by external factors.

markedly delicate

Focuses on the fragility or sensitivity of something, emphasizing careful handling.

extremely perceptive

Focuses on the ability to understand or notice things quickly and accurately; highlights awareness.

intensely reactive

Highlights a strong or extreme response to stimuli, focusing on the intensity of reaction.

very responsive

Highlights quick and positive reaction to stimuli or changes, focusing on reactivity.

noticeably perceptive

Emphasizes that the person or object is remarkably aware and discerning, adding an element of observation.

acutely aware

Implies a heightened state of consciousness or understanding of surroundings or feelings.

тонко чувствующий

Russian version of "highly sensitive"; useful for translating the term into Russian.

FAQs

How can I use "highly sensitive" in a sentence?

You can use "highly sensitive" to describe something easily affected by external factors, or someone with a strong emotional response. For example: "The instrument is "highly sensitive" to temperature changes" or "She is a "highly sensitive" person and needs time to process her emotions".

What are some alternatives to "highly sensitive"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "highly sensitive" include "extremely perceptive", "particularly vulnerable", or "very responsive".

Is it appropriate to describe someone as "highly sensitive"?

Yes, it's appropriate, but consider the context and the individual's preferences. Some people may find it empowering, while others might see it as a negative label. Ensure you are using the term with respect and understanding.

What does it mean to be a "highly sensitive person"?

A "highly sensitive person" (HSP) is a term used to describe individuals who experience heightened emotional sensitivity, process sensory data more deeply, and are more easily overwhelmed by external stimuli. They may also be more intuitive and creative.