sensitive period

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sensitive period" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts related to development, psychology, or education to refer to a specific time frame when an individual is particularly receptive to certain experiences or learning. Example: "During the sensitive period for language acquisition, children are more likely to pick up new languages effortlessly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

-- Egyptian Intelligence Chief Omar Soliman's visit opened up a very sensitive period.

The Guardian

& Mills, K. L. Is adolescence a sensitive period for sociocultural processing?

Nature

In such a sensitive period of security, it is irresponsible to topple the government," Netanyahu said.

The Washington Post

In fact, adolescence is an especially sensitive period for the establishment of mental health, in general.

University of California, Berkeley

But what I learned was that the "sensitive period" for the acquisition of language had long passed.

The Guardian - Opinion

In this sensitive period of political transitions in both countries, wisdom would have dictated restraint.

The New York Times

Here we show that adolescence is a sensitive period for the emergence of prefrontal cognitive deficits in response to HFD.

Nature

Thus, the prenatal period can be regarded as an important and potentially sensitive period of development.

Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry

Still, there is hardly any research addressing how values are shaped throughout this sensitive period.

Journal of Adolescence

In her review, Julia Sinitsky praises Åslund's analysis, but questions the wisdom of austerity during a sensitive period.

Yale University

The second sensitive period for water stress is the late crop stage.

Agricultural Water Management

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing developmental stages or political situations, using "sensitive period" helps emphasize a time of heightened importance or vulnerability. Tailor your vocabulary to match the specific context for greater clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "sensitive period" as a catch-all phrase for any period of importance. Ensure it truly represents a phase where specific conditions or influences have a disproportionate impact. For example, using more descriptive language like "critical juncture" or "vulnerable time" may be more suitable in certain contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sensitive period" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "sensitive" modifies "period". It describes a specific duration characterized by heightened susceptibility or responsiveness to particular stimuli or influences, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sensitive period" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe a specific timeframe of heightened importance or vulnerability. As highlighted by Ludwig, it appears frequently in scientific, academic, and news contexts, signaling its broad applicability. While the phrase is versatile, it's crucial to use it judiciously, ensuring it accurately reflects a period where specific conditions have a disproportionate impact. Alternatives such as "critical window" or "key phase" may be more appropriate depending on the desired nuance. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is well-regarded and suitable for use across various professional and academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

critical window

Emphasizes the importance of the period for specific developments or interventions.

key phase

Highlights the significance of the period as a crucial stage in a process.

vulnerable time

Focuses on the susceptibility to negative influences or risks during the period.

prime opportunity

Stresses the availability of optimal conditions for achieving a desired outcome.

optimal duration

Refers to the ideal length of time for a particular activity or process.

crucial juncture

Highlights the decisive nature of the period as a turning point.

significant timeframe

Indicates the importance of the period in terms of its duration and impact.

receptive moment

Focuses on the increased openness to certain experiences or influences.

tender age

Used primarily in the context of childhood development, emphasizes youth vulnerability and formative experiences.

pivotal stage

Emphasizes that the phase is crucial for later outcomes and developments.

FAQs

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

You can use "sensitive period" to describe a time when someone or something is particularly vulnerable or receptive to certain influences. For example: "Adolescence is a "sensitive period" for mental health."

What's the difference between "sensitive period" and "critical period"?

While both terms refer to specific time frames, "critical period" implies that if certain experiences don't occur during that time, the development may be permanently altered. "Sensitive period" suggests a time of heightened receptivity, but development can still occur outside this window, though it might be more difficult or less effective.

What can I say instead of "sensitive period"?

You can use alternatives like "key phase", "vulnerable time", or "critical window" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "sensitive period" more appropriate in scientific or general contexts?

"Sensitive period" is used in both scientific and general contexts, but it's essential to ensure the context is appropriate. In more formal or scientific writing, be precise about the specific time frame and its effects. In general writing, it can be used more broadly to describe a time of heightened importance or vulnerability.