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Sense vs. Sensibility: What's the Difference?

Edited by Sara Rehman || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 13, 2023
"Sense" refers to logical thinking, perception, or understanding, while "sensibility" denotes sensitivity to emotional or aesthetic matters.

Key Differences

"Sense" involves practical or logical reasoning, whereas "sensibility" is more about acute emotional awareness and responsiveness.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023
In literature, "sense" often signifies rational thought, in contrast to "sensibility," which implies emotional or intuitive responses.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023
"Sense" can relate to a physical perception (like the five senses), while "sensibility" encompasses a more refined or delicate appreciation, particularly of art or beauty.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023
"Sense" also implies sound judgment, whereas "sensibility" may involve a heightened, sometimes overly emotional reaction.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
In decision-making, relying on "sense" suggests a logical approach, while using "sensibility" might indicate a decision influenced by emotions or aesthetics.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023
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Comparison Chart

Definition

Logical reasoning, perception
Emotional sensitivity, appreciation
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023

Context of Usage

Practical, rational thought
Emotional, aesthetic responsiveness
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Associated with

Intelligence, understanding
Empathy, artistic appreciation
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Typical Usage in Speech

Referring to logic or perception
Discussing emotional or aesthetic depth
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

Literary Connotation

Rational characters or themes
Emotionally driven characters or themes
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023
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Sense and Sensibility Definitions

Sense

Sound judgment or practical intelligence.
It's common sense not to spend more than you earn.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023

Sensibility

Capacity for refined emotional reactions.
His sensibility to poetry made him an excellent critic.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Sense

Capacity to perceive or feel.
She had a keen sense of smell.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Sensibility

Acute emotional perception or responsiveness.
Her artistic sensibility was evident in her paintings.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023

Sense

A feeling about something.
He had a sense that something was wrong.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023
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Sensibility

A tendency to feel emotional responses intensely.
His strong sensibility often led him to empathize deeply with others.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

Sense

Awareness or understanding.
He quickly got the sense of the new software.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

Sensibility

The quality of being easily emotionally affected.
The movie's tragedy moved her sensibility.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

Sense

Meaning or significance.
Her words had a deeper sense than we realized.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

Sensibility

Appreciation of or responsiveness to art or beauty.
She had a remarkable sensibility for music.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

Sense

Any of the faculties by which stimuli from outside or inside the body are received and felt, as the faculties of hearing, sight, smell, touch, taste, and equilibrium.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 16, 2023

Sensibility

The ability to perceive stimuli
Lost sensibility in a toe.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 16, 2023

Sense

A perception or feeling produced by a stimulus; sensation
A sense of fatigue and hunger.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 16, 2023

Sensibility

Mental or emotional responsiveness, especially in being offended or in having one's feelings hurt
"The earthy humor of many of the ballads deeply offended her sensibilities" (Anne Stott).
Sumera Saeed
Apr 16, 2023

Sense

Senses The faculties of sensation as means of providing physical gratification and pleasure.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 16, 2023

Sensibility

The capacity to respond intelligently to refined emotions, especially in art
"They celebrated deeds that fit stereotyped images of noble valor, making the writing flat and tedious to modern sensibilities" (David A. Bell).
Sumera Saeed
Apr 16, 2023

FAQs

Can "sense" refer to physical perception?

Yes, "sense" can mean physical perception, like the five senses.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

How is "sensibility" different from sensitivity?

"Sensibility" implies a refined or acute emotional or aesthetic response, more nuanced than general sensitivity.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023

Is "sense" used in a scientific context?

Yes, "sense" is used in both everyday and scientific contexts.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

Is "sensibility" associated with rationality?

No, "sensibility" is more related to emotional and aesthetic awareness.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Can "sense" refer to a general feeling?

Yes, "sense" can also mean a general, often intuitive feeling about something.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

Does "sensibility" always imply a positive quality?

Not necessarily; "sensibility" can sometimes be seen as excessive emotionalism.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Is "sense" innate or learned?

"Sense" can be both innate and developed through experience.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

What is the primary meaning of "sense"?

"Sense" primarily refers to logical reasoning or perception.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Does "sense" imply practical intelligence?

Yes, "sense" often implies practical intelligence or sound judgment.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

Can "sensibility" be learned or developed?

Yes, "sensibility", especially in art or beauty, can be cultivated.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

How does "sense" relate to decision-making?

"Sense" in decision-making refers to a logical, reasoned approach.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Can "sensibility" affect personal relationships?

Yes, a person's sensibility can greatly affect how they relate emotionally to others.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

Is "sense" a versatile term?

Yes, "sense" is versatile and used in various contexts, from practical to perceptual.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

Does "sensibility" imply a deeper understanding?

"Sensibility" often implies a deeper, more intuitive understanding, especially of emotional or aesthetic aspects.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Can "sense" be synonymous with meaning?

Yes, "sense" can also mean the meaning or significance of something.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

How does "sense" apply in technology?

In technology, "sense" can refer to the detection or measurement of physical properties.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Can "sensibility" influence artistic expression?

Yes, "sensibility" greatly influences one's artistic expression and appreciation.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

Is "sensibility" considered a desirable trait?

"Sensibility" is often considered desirable, especially in artistic or empathetic contexts.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Does "sensibility" have a role in literature?

Yes, "sensibility" often plays a key role in literary themes and character development.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

Is "sensibility" a common term in everyday language?

"Sensibility" is less common in casual speech and more often used in artistic or emotional contexts.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera Saeed
Sumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sara Rehman
Sara Rehman is a seasoned writer and editor with extensive experience at Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Information Technology, she combines her academic prowess with her passion for writing to deliver insightful and well-researched content.

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