# insensitivity

/ˌɪnˌsɛnsəˈtɪvəti/ (US) · /ɪnsˌɛnsɪtˈɪvɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/insensitivity
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

not noticing or caring about how other people feel, so your words or actions can hurt them.

For teachers: lack of concern for others' feelings or suffering, shown in words or actions that seem indifferent or harsh. In medical or technical contexts, lack of response to physical stimuli such as pain, touch, or temperature.

## Examples

- His insensitivity hurts his friends.
- Her comment about his job loss showed complete insensitivity to what he was going through.
- The report criticised the company's insensitivity to local concerns, arguing that its expansion plans ignored the cultural and environmental costs borne by residents.

## Synonyms

indifference, coldness, thoughtlessness, callousness, tactlessness

## Antonyms

sensitivity, empathy, compassion, kindness

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.