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
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Context of Usage
Practical, rational thought
Emotional, aesthetic responsiveness
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
ADVERTISEMENT
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
Sensibility
Acute emotional perception or responsiveness.
Her artistic sensibility was evident in her paintings.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
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
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
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 SaeedSumera 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 RehmanSara 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.
