Sensible vs Sensitive: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Sensible" means logical, while "sensitive" is used to mean sensitive or responsive.
Memory Tip: sensible = sense logic, sensitive = sense feelings
sensible has /sɪbəl/ sound, sensitive has /sɪtɪv/ sound
sensible
adjectiveSensible means having good judgment and making wise choices.
Example:
Although he had been considering buying a sports car, he made the sensible decision to purchase a family van instead, given his growing family.
Common patterns:
sensible decision
sensible choice
sensible advice
sensitive
adjectiveSensitive refers to the ability to perceive or respond to slight changes, feelings, or influences, often indicating a heightened awareness or vulnerability.
Example:
If she had known that he was so sensitive to criticism, she would have phrased her feedback more carefully.
Common patterns:
sensitive information
sensitive topic
sensitive issue
Common Mistakes
She made a sensitive decision to save money for the future.
She made a sensible decision to save money for the future.
The decision is logical and practical, hence 'sensible' is the correct word.
He is very sensible to criticism and gets upset easily.
He is very sensitive to criticism and gets upset easily.
Being easily upset by criticism indicates emotional responsiveness, so 'sensitive' is appropriate.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. Although he had been considering buying a sports car, he made the ____ decision to purchase a family van instead, given his growing family.
2. If she had known that he was so ____ to criticism, she would have phrased her feedback more carefully.
Other Confusing Words
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