Basic Details
Word: Insensitive
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Not caring about or understanding other people's feelings.
Synonyms: Unfeeling, callous, indifferent
Antonyms: Sensitive, empathetic, caring
Idioms and Phrases
- Tone-deaf: Used to describe someone who is unable to understand or respond appropriately to others feelings. Example: "His tone-deaf remarks during the meeting showed he was insensitive to the team's worries."
- Shooting from the hip: To act or speak without thinking carefully, often leading to insensitive comments. Example: "She tends to shoot from the hip in conversations, which often results in insensitive jokes."
Usage Examples
Example 1: His insensitive comments about the situation hurt many peoples feelings.
Example 2: It can be very insensitive to ignore someone when they are sharing their problems with you.
Example 3: She realised her insensitive behaviour had pushed her friends away.
Fun Fact
The word "insensitive" comes from the Latin word "insensitivus," which means unfeeling or without sensation. It has been used in English since the early 18th century.
Famous Quote
"Before you speak, ask yourself: Is it kind? Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it going to be helpful?" Author Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "insensitive" mean?
a) Very caring
b) Not understanding people's feelings
c) Being quiet
d) Always happy
Answer: b) Not understanding people's feelings
2. Which of these is a synonym of "insensitive"?
a) Caring
b) Unfeeling
c) Thoughtful
d) Understanding
Answer: b) Unfeeling
3. What is an antonym of "insensitive"?
a) Indifferent
b) Empathetic
c) Unkind
d) Disinterested
Answer: b) Empathetic
4. Which sentence correctly uses "insensitive"?
a) She was insensitive to his needs and interrupted him.
b) The sensitive puppy wagged its tail.
c) They had a sensitive discussion about the weather.
d) He gave an insensitive thank you.
Answer: a) She was insensitive to his needs and interrupted him.
5. Which idiom means the same as "insensitive"?
a) Shooting from the hip
b) Walking on eggshells
c) Full of beans
d) As cool as a cucumber
Answer: a) Shooting from the hip
