VocabDictionary

insensitively

/ɪnˈsɛnsɪtɪvli/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adverb

In a manner that shows a lack of awareness or concern for the feelings, needs, or circumstances of others; tactlessly or callously.

Example Sentences:
  • He insensitively joked about the tragedy, unaware that several people in the room had been personally affected.
  • The manager handled the layoffs insensitively by sending a mass text message on a holiday weekend.
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Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “insensitively”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The word is an adverbial form of 'insensitive,' created by adding the suffix '-ly.' 'Insensitive' originates from the Latin prefix 'in-' (meaning 'not') combined with 'sensitivus' (capable of sensation), which stems from 'sensus' (the faculty of feeling). It entered Middle English via the Old French 'sensitif.'

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone who is 'in' (not) 'sensing' the 'vibe' of the room.

Frequently Asked Questions About “insensitively

1. What is the meaning of “insensitively” in English?

In English, insensitively (adverb) is defined as: “In a manner that shows a lack of awareness or concern for the feelings, needs, or circumstances of others; tactlessly or callously.”.

2. How do you use “insensitively” in a sentence?

He insensitively joked about the tragedy, unaware that several people in the room had been personally affected.

3. What are English synonyms of “insensitively”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “insensitively”?

The word is an adverbial form of 'insensitive,' created by adding the suffix '-ly.' 'Insensitive' originates from the Latin prefix 'in-' (meaning 'not') combined with 'sensitivus' (capable of sensation), which stems from 'sensus' (the faculty of feeling). It entered Middle English via the Old French 'sensitif.'