Basic Details
Word: Sensitivity
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The quality of being sensitive; the ability to understand and respond to the feelings of others, or to react to changes.
Synonyms: Responsiveness, awareness, consideration
Antonyms: Insensitivity, indifference
Idioms and Phrases
- Sensitive soul: Someone who is very aware of and affected by the feelings of others. Example: "As a sensitive soul, she always knows when her friends need her support."
- Walk on eggshells: To be very cautious or careful about how you behave or what you say to avoid upsetting someone. Example: "Since he was upset, we had to walk on eggshells around him."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Her sensitivity to others' feelings made her a great friend to have during tough times.
Example 2: The sensitivity of the equipment means it can easily detect the slightest changes in temperature.
Example 3: He showed great sensitivity when discussing subjects that were important to his classmates.
Fun Fact
The word "sensitivity" comes from the Latin word "sensus," which means "feeling" or "perception." This showcases how sensitivity relates to our ability to feel and empathise with others.
Famous Quote
"Sensitivity is a sign of strength, not weakness." Anonymous.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "sensitivity" mean?
a) The ability to ignore feelings
b) The quality of being aware of feelings
c) A type of physical strength
d) A state of being indifferent
Answer: b) The quality of being aware of feelings
2. Which of these is a synonym of "sensitivity"?
a) Consideration
b) Cruelty
c) Indifference
d) Anger
Answer: a) Consideration
3. What is an antonym of "sensitivity"?
a) Empathy
b) Awareness
c) Insensitivity
d) Sympathy
Answer: c) Insensitivity
4. Which sentence uses "sensitivity" correctly?
a) His sensitivity to loud noises made him cover his ears.
b) She showed insensitivity when she ignored his feelings.
c) Sensitivity is a type of fruit.
d) He was very insensitivity in his speech.
Answer: a) His sensitivity to loud noises made him cover his ears.
5. Which idiom means to be very careful about someone's feelings?
a) Sensitive soul
b) Walk on eggshells
c) Jumping into the deep end
d) Out of the frying pan and into the fire
Answer: b) Walk on eggshells
