ENGLISH
REFERENCE

responsive

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ɹɪˈspɑnsɪv// UK //ɹɪspˈɒnsɪv// re·spon·sive Archaic

adj. reacting quickly and in a positive way to something. You use this to describe people who listen well or machines that work fast when you touch them.

adj. reacting readily and appropriately to a stimulus, suggestion, or influence. Often describes a system's latency or a person's receptiveness to feedback.


SIMPLE

The touch screen is very responsive to light pressure.

CONTEXTUAL

The company became much more responsive to customer complaints after the new manager took over.

COMPLEX

A truly responsive government must not only listen to the immediate demands of the electorate but also anticipate the long-term consequences of shifting social trends.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Middle French responsif, from Late Latin responsivus.

Usage

Often followed by the preposition 'to'.

Pitfall

The car is responsive for my steering.The car is responsive to my steering.Responsive takes the preposition 'to' when indicating the cause of the reaction.

© 2026 English Reference