sensitive to noise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sensitive to noise" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is generally used to describe something that is easily disturbed by loud or unexpected noises. For example, you could say, "My dog is very sensitive to noise and will often bark when she hears a loud sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Carpenter bees are notoriously sensitive to noise, which may in fact be a sensitivity to vibrations.

WikiHow

Many campers are unsually sensitive to noise.

The New York Times

Through Rita, I discovered Britten was very sensitive to noise.

The Guardian - Music

But it is surrounded by residential communities that are extremely sensitive to noise.

The New York Times

Justin, for example, is unusually sensitive to noise; others are uncomfortable with light or touch.

The New York Times

The genetic disorder makes sufferers particularly anxious and sensitive to noise.

Independent

Those who inject cocaine – the favoured drug in this area – become extremely sensitive to noise while high.

The Guardian

These derivatives are highly sensitive to noise.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

(2) Current network mechanisms are sensitive to noise.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

However, it is highly sensitive to noise uncertainty [12].

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

However, this method is very sensitive to noise (Tonn 1991).

Earth, Planets and Space

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a condition or a technological process, use "sensitive to noise" to highlight a vulnerability or limitation.

Common error

Avoid using "sensitive to noise" when you mean "sensitive to sound" in general. Noise is typically unwanted sound, so ensure the context is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sensitive to noise" functions as an adjective phrase, specifically describing a heightened responsiveness or vulnerability to auditory disturbances. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a grammatically sound way to describe susceptibility to noise. Examples show its usage across various subjects, from carpenter bees to individuals with autism.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

31%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sensitive to noise" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a heightened susceptibility to auditory disturbances. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across various fields like science, news, and general informational contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the context and ensure that "noise" is the appropriate term, as it refers to unwanted or disruptive sounds. Alternatives such as "easily disturbed by noise" or "vulnerable to loud sounds" can provide similar meaning with slight nuances. Overall, "sensitive to noise" is a versatile and useful phrase for describing a specific type of auditory vulnerability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

easily disturbed by noise

Focuses on the ease with which noise causes disruption.

highly reactive to noise

Emphasizes the intensity of the reaction to noise.

easily affected by sound

A broader term including any sound, not just noise.

susceptible to auditory disturbance

More formal and clinical phrasing.

vulnerable to loud sounds

Highlights the potential harm or discomfort from loud sounds.

having a low noise threshold

Technical term describing a low tolerance for noise.

displaying noise aversion

Indicates a dislike or avoidance of noise.

easily agitated by noise

Focuses on the negative emotional response to noise.

displaying sound hypersensitivity

Clinical description of increased sensitivity to sound.

affected by even slight noises

Emphasizes sensitivity even to quieter noises.

FAQs

How can I use "sensitive to noise" in a sentence?

You can use "sensitive to noise" to describe people, animals, or equipment that are easily affected or disrupted by sounds. For example, "Carpenter bees are notoriously "sensitive to noise"" or "This microphone is "sensitive to noise" and picks up background sounds easily".

What's the difference between "sensitive to noise" and "sensitive to sound"?

"Sensitive to sound" is a broader term encompassing all sounds, while ""sensitive to noise"" specifically refers to being easily bothered or affected by unwanted or disruptive sounds.

Which is correct, "sensitive to noise" or "noise-sensitive"?

Both ""sensitive to noise"" and "noise-sensitive" are correct. "Noise-sensitive" is a compound adjective, while "sensitive to noise" is an adjective phrase. The choice depends on stylistic preference.

What can I say instead of "sensitive to noise"?

You can use alternatives like "easily disturbed by noise", "highly reactive to noise", or "vulnerable to loud sounds" depending on the specific context.