sensitivity
noun
L. C. Brown
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Do you have acuity or sensitivity?
Acuity is nearly synonymous with at least one sense of sensitivity, yet, as is so often the case with closely related words, there are subtle differences worth observing before you substitute one of these words for the other. Acuity does refer to a form of sensitivity, but it is most often applied to the perceptual senses (as in “visual acuity” or “auditory acuity”). It is also frequently used in reference to the intellect (as in “mental acuity”). Sensitivity has a broader range of meanings than acuity does, including “the capacity of being easily hurt.” It may be used of inanimate objects such as radios (“the sensitivity of the instruments was carefully calibrated”), a context in which acuity is unusual.
Synonyms
Examples of sensitivity in a Sentence
Kimmy Yam, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024
Days after, Karter still had a headache, dizziness, and sensitivity to light and noise.
—Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 9 Nov. 2024
The filing also details the company's exposure to interest rate risk, noting asset sensitivity to rising rates, and outlines the potential impacts on net interest income and economic value of equity.
—Quartz Bot, Quartz, 7 Nov. 2024
Individuals with shoulder injuries or sensitivities might consider the plush version of the Nolah Evolution for extra body contouring.
—Macy Alcido, Architectural Digest, 31 Oct. 2024
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Dictionary Entries Near sensitivity
Cite this Entry
“Sensitivity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensitivity. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.
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sensitivity
noun
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sensitivity
noun
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