take a sensitive approach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take a sensitive approach" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing topics that require careful consideration of feelings or perspectives. For example, "In addressing the issue, we should take a sensitive approach to ensure everyone feels heard." Alternative expressions include "adopt a compassionate approach" and "use a considerate approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We are taking a sensitive approach," he said.

Los Angeles Times

The E.P.A. seemed at pains to appear reasonable on the challenges of an industry transition: in a conference call with reporters, Ms. McCarthy emphasized that the agency would take a "sensitive and collaborative" approach in issuing rules for plants and refineries.

The New York Times - Science

When it happens, though, all sides will need to take a more sensitive approach.

The Economist

Overall, nurses' took a sensitive and caring approach to assessment and screening, however, there were differences in interpretations of the policy recommendations across the two sites.

BMC Health Services Research

[ 5] Further, this report attempts to take a gender-sensitive approach to health information where possible, taking into account the context of individual's lives (i.e. the social and cultural roles and responsibilities that differentiate women from men and subgroups of women from other subgroups).

BMC Women's Health

First up were the people who took a more sensitive approach to the sad news that Tom may be off the market.

Vice

Mr Hammond said he could understand the "dismay" expressed at the withdrawal of units, but said a sensitive approach had been taken to army restructuring.

BBC

Delve deeper and search the the GetHuman website with the companies name (taking a case-sensitive approach into consideration when searching that site).

WikiHow

We need to take a comprehensive but sensitive approach, evaluating existing land, communities and transport uses against what could be.

The Guardian - Arts

Some Europeans complain that American policymakers, preoccupied by the Middle East, take a cavalier approach to some extremely sensitive issues, such as Turkish membership of the European Union.

The Economist

Produced by vlogger Arielle Scarcella, the video takes a candid and sensitive approach to a difficult -- and oftentimes painful -- topic.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair this phrase with specific examples of what the 'sensitivity' entails to avoid sounding like you are using corporate jargon.

Common error

Do not use "take a sensitive approach" as a placeholder for a lack of a clear plan. Writers often use it to signal empathy without following up with concrete actions, which can lead to a perception of indecisiveness or insincerity.

Linguistic Context

As noted by Ludwig, this phrase functions as a verb phrase used to characterize a specific mode of operation. It typically serves as a directive or a descriptive summary of a strategy that prioritizes emotional or social awareness. The structure allows for modifiers like "more" or "very" to adjust the degree of intensity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take a sensitive approach" is a versatile and professionally favored expression for describing a strategy that values nuance and empathy. According to Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in high-authority media outlets such as The New York Times and The Economist to describe political, social or environmental decision-making. While the phrase itself is a standard collocation, it is often modified in practice to include specific qualifiers like "gender-sensitive" or "case-sensitive". When using this phrase, ensure that the surrounding context provides enough detail to make the "sensitivity" meaningful rather than just a buzzword. It remains an excellent choice for any writer needing to convey a sense of care and careful consideration in a formal or neutral setting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adopt a nuanced approach

Suggests a strategy that accounts for subtle complexities and shades of meaning.

be mindful in your approach

Emphasizes the need for conscious awareness and presence regarding the impact of one's actions.

handle the matter delicately

Uses a verb-adverb structure to focus on the careful execution of a task.

use a tactful strategy

Highlights the use of diplomacy and social grace to avoid giving offense.

take a compassionate stance

Shifts from a general method to a specific position rooted in empathy.

employ a considerate method

Focuses on the deliberate thought given to the feelings and needs of others.

maintain a respectful attitude

Prioritizes the behavioral tone and interpersonal respect over the procedural plan.

proceed with caution

Leans more toward risk management and safety than emotional sensitivity.

utilize a cautious methodology

A more formal and technical phrasing often found in research or policy contexts.

show compassion in the process

Focuses on the emotional quality demonstrated during the execution of a project.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "take a sensitive approach"?

It is most appropriate when addressing topics that require careful consideration of feelings or social perspectives, such as in "The team decided to "take a sensitive approach" when delivering the performance reviews."

What is the difference between "take a sensitive approach" and "be tactful"?

While both involve care, "take a sensitive approach" refers to the overarching strategy or framework, whereas to "be tactful" usually refers to specific verbal interactions and immediate social diplomacy.

Can I say "take a compassionate approach" instead?

Yes, "take a compassionate approach" is a strong alternative that emphasizes empathy and kindness even more than sensitivity does.

Is it "take a sensitive approach" or "take a sensible approach"?

These have different meanings. Use "take a sensitive approach" for matters of feeling or nuance and "take a sensible approach" when you mean a practical or logical strategy.