sensitive about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'sensitive about' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe someone who is easily offended or angered by a certain topic. For example: "He was very sensitive about his weight, so I didn't want to mention it in conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We're sensitive about that.

The New Yorker

"He gets sensitive about that".

The New Yorker

Sensitive about reliability?

The New York Times

I'm a little sensitive about that.

The New York Times

Power is sensitive about appearing unduly ambitious.

The New Yorker

He is sensitive about the alcohol thing.

The New Yorker

Some people are sensitive about parking.

The New Yorker

Dave's really sensitive about this.

The Guardian

I'm sensitive about these things.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The government is very sensitive about that".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Well-meaning, newish acts can get over-sensitive about it.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potentially controversial topics, use "sensitive about" to show awareness of potential emotional reactions. For instance, "The company is very "sensitive about" issues of data privacy."

Common error

While "sensitive about" is widely understood, using more formal language like "cognizant of" or "mindful of" can add a layer of professionalism in certain business or academic settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sensitive about" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe someone or something easily affected emotionally by a particular issue. Ludwig shows that this phrase commonly describes individuals, organizations, or even governments in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sensitive about" is a common and generally correct way to describe someone or something easily emotionally affected by a particular topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its versatility across contexts, particularly in news and media. While highly prevalent, consider formality when choosing synonyms like "concerned regarding" or "mindful of" for professional or academic writing. Be aware of potential emotional reactions when discussing topics where someone might be "sensitive about", showing consideration and respect in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

easily offended by

Focuses specifically on the characteristic of being readily upset or insulted.

thin-skinned about

Emphasizes a personal tendency to be easily hurt by criticism or negative feedback.

concerned regarding

Emphasizes worry or unease about a particular issue or matter.

apprehensive about

Highlights anxiety or fear concerning a future event or potential outcome.

uneasy regarding

Suggests a feeling of discomfort or restlessness about something.

mindful of

Highlights the attentiveness and consideration given to something, showing caution and awareness.

vulnerable to

Focuses on the possibility of being harmed or negatively affected by something.

susceptible to

Similar to "vulnerable to", but often implies a weaker resistance to influence or impact.

easily affected by

Highlights how readily something can have an impact on someone's emotions or well-being.

aware of

Implies possessing knowledge or understanding of a particular situation or issue, potentially leading to sensitivity.

FAQs

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

You can use "sensitive about" to describe someone who is easily offended or concerned about a particular topic. For example, "He's very "sensitive about" his height" or "The company is "sensitive about" its environmental impact".

What is a good alternative to "sensitive about"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "concerned regarding", "easily offended by", or "mindful of".

Is it better to say "sensitive to" or "sensitive about"?

"Sensitive to" usually refers to physical or sensory sensitivity, while "sensitive about" typically refers to emotional or psychological sensitivity. For instance, "He's sensitive to bright light" versus "He's "sensitive about" criticism".

What does it mean to be "sensitive about" something?

Being "sensitive about" something means you are easily affected by it emotionally, often leading to feelings of defensiveness, insecurity, or concern. It indicates a heightened awareness and emotional response to the topic.