Dünnhäutig

Dünnhäutig is a German adjective that literally translates to "thin-skinned." In its figurative sense, it describes someone who is easily offended, overly sensitive, or reacts emotionally to criticism or perceived slights. A dünnhäutig person might be quick to take things personally, become defensive, or feel hurt even when no offense was intended. This characteristic can manifest in various social interactions, making communication challenging for both the individual and those around them.

The term is often used to explain why someone might be upset by a comment that others might find innocuous. It implies a lack of resilience to emotional feedback or a tendency to interpret situations through a lens of personal vulnerability. While sometimes used neutrally to describe a personality trait, it can also carry a slightly negative connotation, suggesting a difficulty in handling interpersonal dynamics maturely. Understanding that someone is dünnhäutig can sometimes help in navigating conversations with them more carefully, choosing words and tones that are less likely to trigger a strong emotional response. It's important to note that this is a subjective description and the perception of being thin-skinned can vary greatly from person to person.