emotional

word · lemma: emotion

/ˈiˌmoʊʃənəɫ/
i-MOH-shuh-nuhl
/ɪmˈəʊʃənəl/
i-MOH-shuh-nuhl

Definition

Showing strong feelings, or being easily affected by feelings. It can describe a person, a reaction, or something that causes deep feelings.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for people ('She is very emotional'), moments ('an emotional scene'), or reactions ('He got emotional'). It is usually neutral, but can suggest someone is crying or not thinking calmly in some contexts. Don't confuse it with 'sensitive': 'emotional' focuses on feelings, while 'sensitive' often means easily hurt or aware of small changes.

Example Sentences

He got really emotional after hearing the news.

natural

She felt emotional when she saw her old school again.

basic

That movie was very emotional.

basic

He gets emotional when he talks about his family.

basic

Try not to make an emotional decision right now.

natural

I wasn't expecting the speech to be so emotional, honestly.

natural