Impetuosity: meaning, definitions and examples

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impetuosity

 

[ ˌɪmpɪtjuˈɒsɪti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in behavior

The quality of being impulsive or acting suddenly without careful thought. It is often characterized by a lack of self-control and a tendency to act on sudden urges or emotions.

Synonyms

haste, impulsiveness, rashness, recklessness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impetuosity

Used to describe actions performed with sudden energy and little thought, often driven by emotion. It implies a certain fervor and intensity.

  • Her impetuosity led her to make decisions without consulting anyone
impulsiveness

Describes actions driven by sudden urges or desires, often without thinking about the consequences. It is often used when discussing personalities or behaviors.

  • His impulsiveness often got him into trouble
rashness

Describes an action done without careful consideration of the possible consequences, usually leading to negative outcomes. It suggests a lack of judgment.

  • Her rashness resulted in a costly mistake
haste

Describes the act of doing something quickly, often because of urgency or a lack of time. It implies a sense of rushing and sometimes carelessness.

  • In his haste to leave, he forgot his keys
recklessness

Describes behavior that is careless and risky, often ignoring potential danger or consequences. It has a negative connotation.

  • His recklessness behind the wheel caused the accident

Examples of usage

  • She often acted with impetuosity, making decisions on a whim without considering the consequences.
  • His impetuosity led him to quit his job without having another one lined up.
  • The impetuosity of his actions caused chaos and confusion among his colleagues.
Context #2 | Noun

in nature

The force or energy with which a body moves. It is often associated with a sudden burst of speed or momentum.

Synonyms

force, momentum, speed, velocity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impetuosity

Best used to describe a person's actions or emotions, usually implying impulsiveness or rashness. It can have a negative connotation.

  • His impetuosity led him to make decisions without thinking
  • Her answers in the meeting were marked by impetuosity and lacked due consideration
force

Suitable for describing physical power or strength, as well as the influence someone or something has.

  • The force of the wind was strong enough to knock down trees
  • Her argument was compelling, delivered with great force
velocity

Scientific term specifically referring to the speed of something in a given direction. A more technical expression often used in physics and engineering.

  • The velocity of the car was measured in meters per second
  • Scientists calculated the velocity of the comet as it approached Earth
momentum

Typically refers to the strength or drive something gains over time, often used in both physical and figurative senses.

  • The car gained momentum as it rolled down the hill
  • The campaign is starting to gain momentum with more supporters joining every day
speed

Used to describe how fast someone or something is moving or happening. It can refer to physical movement as well as the rapidity of an action or process.

  • She increased her speed to catch the bus
  • The speed of technology advancements is astonishing

Examples of usage

  • The impetuosity of the river's current made it difficult to navigate.
  • The impetuosity of the wind carried the leaves far and wide.
  • The impetuosity of the horse's gallop was exhilarating.

Translations

Translations of the word "impetuosity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ímpeto

🇮🇳 उतावलापन

🇩🇪 Heftigkeit

🇮🇩 keranjingan

🇺🇦 імпульсивність

🇵🇱 impulsywność

🇯🇵 衝動

🇫🇷 impétuosité

🇪🇸 impetuosidad

🇹🇷 atılganlık

🇰🇷 충동

🇸🇦 اندفاعية

🇨🇿 impulzivita

🇸🇰 impulzívnosť

🇨🇳 冲动

🇸🇮 impulzivnost

🇮🇸 hvatvísi

🇰🇿 ұшқалақтық

🇬🇪 დაუფიქრებლობა

🇦🇿 tələsiklik

🇲🇽 impetuosidad

Etymology

The word 'impetuosity' originates from the Latin word 'impetuositas', which means 'violence, force'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe the quality of being impulsive or acting with sudden energy. The concept of impetuosity has been explored in various literary works and philosophical discussions, highlighting both its positive and negative aspects in human behavior and nature.

See also: impetuously, impetuousness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,752, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.