Compulsively Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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compulsively

[kəmˈpʌlsɪvli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

behavior

in a way that is difficult to resist or control; irresistibly

Synonyms

irresistibly, obsessively, uncontrollably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compulsively	Use 'compulsively' when describing actions driven by a recurring urge that is difficult to resist, often tied to habits or mental health issues. He checked his phone compulsively every few minutes She cleaned the house compulsively, unable to stop
irresistibly	Use 'irresistibly' to describe something that is difficult or impossible to resist due to its strong appeal or attraction. The chocolate cake was irresistibly delicious He found the melody irresistibly catchy
uncontrollably	Use 'uncontrollably' to describe actions or emotions that are beyond one's control, often happening spontaneously and intensely. She laughed uncontrollably at the joke He cried uncontrollably after hearing the news
obsessively	Use 'obsessively' when describing actions or thoughts that dominate someone’s mind in an unhealthy manner, often indicating fixation or preoccupation. She followed her favorite celebrity obsessively on social media He was obsessively worried about his health

Examples of usage

She was compulsively checking her phone every few minutes.
He compulsively washed his hands multiple times a day.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

psychology

as a result of a compulsive disorder or impulse

Synonyms

instinctively, involuntarily, obsessively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compulsively	Used when describing actions that are done due to an irresistible urge, often without fully understanding why. It generally implies a lack of control over the action. She checked her phone compulsively, unable to resist the habit. He began to wash his hands compulsively, fearing germs.
obsessively	Used to describe actions performed with an excessive preoccupation or focus, often to an unhealthy degree. It usually has a negative connotation. She cleaned the house obsessively, spending hours on every corner. He checked the locks on the doors obsessively every night.
involuntarily	Refers to actions that happen without a person's conscious control, often as an automatic response or reflex. He sneezed involuntarily when the pepper was sprinkled. Her hand twitched involuntarily as she tried to relax.
instinctively	Describes actions that are performed naturally or automatically, without conscious thought or planning, often based on innate tendencies. She instinctively reached out to catch the falling vase. He instinctively knew that something was wrong.

Examples of usage

He felt compelled to repeat the action compulsively due to his OCD.
She ate compulsively as a coping mechanism for stress.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'compulsively'

The word 'compulsively' is derived from the word 'compulsive', which originates from the Latin word 'compulsivus', meaning 'driven, forced'. The term 'compulsive' was first used in the early 17th century to describe actions or behaviors that are difficult to resist or control. Over time, the adverb 'compulsively' was formed to describe the manner in which these actions are performed. Today, 'compulsively' is commonly used in psychology and everyday language to convey a sense of uncontrollable urge or impulse.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,254 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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31251 archdiocese
31252 unspecific
31253 longhand
31254 compulsively
31255 slaver
31256 sporty
31257 harmonically
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