sound sensitivity

USAGE SUMMARY

"sound sensitivity" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing a heightened awareness or reaction to sounds, often in contexts related to sensory processing or conditions like autism. For example, "Her sound sensitivity made it difficult for her to concentrate in noisy environments." Alternative expressions include "auditory sensitivity" and "sensitivity to sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Ms. Murphy brings sweet, clear sound, sensitivity and intelligence to everything she sings.

The New York Times

The sound sensitivity of dolphins falls off near the bottom of the human acoustic spectrum (40 50 hertz), but this is the beginning of the range used by the large baleen whales.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For example, one patient might have mild unilateral headache with nausea and none of the other symptoms, and another might have a severe throbbing bilateral headache without nausea but with light and sound sensitivity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The base pulses up and down with warm, relaxing colors to the beat of the music and users can adjust volume, light and sound sensitivity.

TechCrunch

Headache is the primary symptom of migraine and patients may also be afflicted by other symptoms including pulsatile pain, light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, nausea, unilateral pain, blurred vision and emesis.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

The pain is frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sensitivity to sound, sensitivity to smells, fatigue and irritability.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Elizabeth Batton, 25, a mezzo-soprano, sang arias by Saint-Saens and Tchaikovsky with full, rich sound and sensitivity.

The New York Times - Arts

The soprano Michaela Gurevich sang it here with dusky sound and sensitivity, though her diction was not always clear.

The New York Times - Arts

When the equipment emits a sound pulse, sensitivity is low, so that if much of the sound returns quickly the receiver won't be overwhelmed.

The New York Times - Science

In the "Resurrection" poem by Friedrich Gottlieb Klopstock, with Mahler's added verses, the always impressive Tanglewood Festival Chorus (directed by John Oliver) sang with robust sound and sensitivity.

The New York Times - Arts

The swelling experiments of the hydrogel in pH 3, 7, and 12 media indicated much higher swelling ratio in pH 12 media than in pH 3 and pH 7 media, exhibiting sound pH sensitivity.

Chinese Chemical Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing medical conditions, specify the type and degree of "sound sensitivity" to provide clarity. For example, differentiate between mild discomfort and debilitating hyperacusis.

Common error

Avoid using "sound sensitivity" when you simply mean a preference for certain types of sounds. "Sensitivity" implies a heightened or adverse reaction, not just a liking or disliking.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sound sensitivity" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. It is used to describe a state or condition related to the auditory system.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

34%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sound sensitivity" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term that refers to a heightened or unusual responsiveness to sounds. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and usability in various contexts. The phrase is most commonly encountered in scientific and news-related domains, often describing medical conditions or technical specifications. Related terms include "auditory sensitivity" and "hyperacusis", each carrying nuanced differences. When using the phrase, it's important to specify the nature and degree of the sensitivity and to avoid confusing it with mere sound preferences. Ultimately, understanding "sound sensitivity" is crucial for effective communication in both technical and everyday discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

auditory sensitivity

Replaces "sound" with "auditory", emphasizing the sense of hearing.

sensitivity to sound

Reverses the order of the words to highlight sound as the object of sensitivity.

auditory oversensitivity

Highlights the excessive nature of the sensitivity.

sound hypersensitivity

Uses "hypersensitivity" to denote an extreme level of sensitivity.

heightened sound perception

Uses "heightened perception" to suggest an increased awareness of sounds.

increased auditory awareness

Focuses on being more aware of auditory stimuli.

exaggerated response to sound

Describes the reaction rather than the state of being sensitive.

hyperacusis

A medical term for increased sensitivity to everyday sounds.

acute hearing

Emphasizes the sharpness and clarity of hearing, which can be related to sensitivity.

phonophobia

A fear of loud sounds; related to sound sensitivity but implies a fear response.

FAQs

How is "sound sensitivity" typically presented as a symptom?

Typically, "sound sensitivity" is listed alongside other sensory sensitivities, such as light sensitivity, and symptoms like nausea and headaches, especially in the context of migraines or neurological conditions.

What's the difference between "auditory sensitivity" and "sound sensitivity"?

While "auditory sensitivity" and "sound sensitivity" are often used interchangeably, "auditory" specifically refers to the sense of hearing, whereas "sound" refers to the stimulus. The choice often depends on the context and desired level of formality.

When should I use the term "hyperacusis" instead of "sound sensitivity"?

"Hyperacusis" is a specific medical condition characterized by increased sensitivity to everyday sounds, often causing discomfort or pain. Use "hyperacusis" when referring to this diagnosed condition, rather than general "sound sensitivity".

What are some practical strategies for managing "sound sensitivity" in daily life?

Managing "sound sensitivity" can involve using noise-cancelling headphones, creating quiet spaces, avoiding excessively loud environments, and seeking professional help from audiologists or therapists.