Synonyms for

Insensitive

Verb / ˌɪˈnsensʌtɪv / / ˌɪˈnsensɪtɪv / Another word for insensitive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not aware of or not caring about the feelings of others

Synonyms & similar words

sensitive heartless unfeeling callous unsympathetic cold unemotional hard-hearted indifferent uncompassionate uncaring ruthless unkind inhuman brutal pitiless harsh cruel unsentimental stony apathetic

Synonyms by register

Formal

unresponsive unfeeling oblivious indifferent

Informal

thick-skinned hard-hearted clueless dense

Literary

impassive stoic

Antonyms

sensitive caring considerate compassionate empathetic thoughtful understanding

Common collocations

  • insensitive to criticism
  • insensitive to suffering
  • insensitive remark
  • insensitive to change
  • insensitive to the needs of others
  • insensitive to pain
  • insensitive behavior

Word family

noun insensitivity
adverb insensitively

Usage note

Often used to describe a lack of awareness or consideration for others' feelings or situations. Can sometimes imply a deliberate lack of empathy rather than mere ignorance.

Example sentences

  1. The insensitive teacher didn't notice that the student was crying.
  2. The insensitive boy teased his classmate who was wearing glasses.
  3. The doctor was insensitive to the patient's pain.
  4. The insensitive politician made a joke about poverty.
  5. The insensitive boss didn't give his employee time off to attend her brother's wedding.

Quotes

  • It is our sensitivity that enables us to be truly courageous, and it is our compassion that allows us to be truly wise.
  • The ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral, begetting the very thing it seeks to destroy. Instead of diminishing evil, it multiplies it... Through violence you may murder the liar, but you cannot murder the lie, nor establish the truth. Through violence you may murder the hater, but you do not murder hate. In fact, violence merely increases hate.... Returning violence for violence multiples violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.
  • I don't like to be called a 'survivor.' I prefer to be called a 'warrior.' Surviving is just a part of my life. Being a warrior is all of it. I am sensitive, but strong. I am scared, but courageous. I am sad, but optimistic. I am all of these things and more.

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