sensitive ego

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sensitive ego" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is easily hurt or offended by criticism or perceived slights. Example: "He has a sensitive ego, so be careful how you phrase your feedback."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It starred David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight and a customised Pontiac Trans Am as KITT, the supercharged crime-fighting car with a bulletproof exterior, a currency dispenser, a flame thrower, a medical scanner, an odds calculator and a sensitive ego.

Independent

Basically, anyone with a sensitive ego that clouds their judgment is susceptible.

WikiHow

You don't want her to feel like you have a sensitive ego; you want her to see that you're secure enough in who you are to take a little teasing.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

There they spot gaffes and inconsistencies, policy issues neglected and sensitive egos left unmassaged.

The Economist

Our takeaway from this is that college bros have sensitive egos, not necessarily that all men feel their masculinity is under attack when someone unexpectedly does something courteous.

Huffington Post

"They invited us to analyze the collection and spot the references, and we are finding their transparency refreshing… this is the way to go!" The collaboration is something of a surprise in a world that can be precious about bruising sensitive egos, the account won't spare a designer for copying a silhouette, print, or even a clasp.

Vice

I wanna make it back home in one piece!" And my mind, amazing babbling problem-solver that it is, said, "I got this," and went to work on building a wall and posting the ultra-sensitive ego as a sentry to ward off any potential threats.

Huffington Post

Knockout of TORC2 does not confer a starvation-like phenotype, and the nutrient-sensitive EGO complex appears not to be upstream of TORC2.

Genetics

But their leaders share a talent for humbug, half-truths and over-reaction to sometimes justified criticism that less-sensitive egos would take in their stride.

The Economist

"Project Runway" also found a large audience with its alchemy of cutthroat competition, hyper-sensitive egos and outlandish creativity on the clock: designers who are given 24 hours to create evening gowns out of bark or plastic wrap.

The New York Times - Arts

At this point, I have to put my sensitive male ego aside.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone with a "sensitive ego", be mindful of your language and approach to avoid causing unintentional offense. Opt for constructive feedback and positive reinforcement to foster a more receptive environment.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "sensitive ego" as a broad generalization or stereotype. Recognize that individual reactions to criticism can vary, and attributing sensitivity based on assumptions can be unfair and inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sensitive ego" functions as a descriptor, combining an adjective ("sensitive") with a noun ("ego") to characterize a particular attribute of an individual's self-perception or sense of self-worth. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sensitive ego" describes an individual's heightened vulnerability to criticism. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in written English. While infrequent in general usage, as evidenced by the limited number of examples, it effectively conveys the concept of an easily bruised or fragile sense of self. When using this phrase, consider the context and audience, as more formal situations may warrant alternative descriptions such as "fragile self-esteem" or "delicate pride".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fragile ego

Replaces "sensitive" with "fragile", emphasizing the ease with which the ego can be damaged.

delicate ego

Uses "delicate" instead of "sensitive", suggesting a need for careful handling to avoid causing offense.

easily bruised ego

Emphasizes the susceptibility of the ego to being hurt or offended.

thin-skinned ego

Draws a parallel to physical sensitivity, implying a quickness to take offense.

vulnerable ego

Highlights the defenselessness of the ego against perceived attacks or criticism.

susceptible ego

Implies a tendency to be easily affected by criticism or perceived slights.

inflated ego

Although it can have different nuance it still refers to a specific ego condition, thus resulting quite related.

overly proud

Shifts the focus to the characteristic of excessive pride that may lead to sensitivity.

self-esteem issues

Focuses on underlying self-esteem problems as a cause for a sensitive ego.

defensive personality

Describes a personality trait characterized by a tendency to protect oneself from criticism.

FAQs

How can I describe someone with a "sensitive ego" without using that exact phrase?

Consider using alternatives such as "fragile ego", "easily bruised ego", or "thin-skinned ego" to convey a similar meaning while varying your language.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "sensitive ego" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "sensitive ego" might be perceived as informal or judgmental in certain formal contexts. Depending on the situation, consider more neutral alternatives like "high need for positive feedback" or "easily affected by criticism".

What causes someone to have a "sensitive ego"?

A "sensitive ego" can stem from various factors, including low self-esteem, past experiences of criticism or rejection, or a strong need for external validation. Addressing the underlying causes can be more helpful than simply labeling someone as having a "sensitive ego".

How can I give feedback to someone with a "sensitive ego"?

When providing feedback, focus on specific behaviors and their impact rather than making general statements about the person's character. Use a gentle and supportive tone, and emphasize the positive aspects of their work. Frame criticism as opportunities for growth and improvement.