Impulse: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a sudden, spontaneous reaction or decision, often without much thought.

• She had an impulse to buy the dress even though it was expensive

Indicates a strong desire or drive to do something, which can sometimes be difficult to resist.

• He had a strong urge to eat something sweet late at night

Describes an innate, often unconscious reaction or behavior typically based on intuition or gut feeling.

• Her maternal instinct kicked in when she saw the child crying

Refers to a person's natural tendency or preference toward something, often developed over time.

• He has an inclination to help others, which makes him a great teacher

Use 'impulse' when referring to a sudden strong urge or desire to act, or a brief electrical charge traveling along a nerve or muscle fiber. It often denotes a sudden force or movement.

• She felt an impulse to run away.
• The neurons fired an impulse, sending a signal to the brain.

Use 'signal' to describe any form of transmission that conveys information. This can be electronic, visual, or auditory. It is broader than 'electrical impulse' and can apply to technology, communication, or even natural phenomena.

• The train station sends out a signal to indicate arrival times.
• Her raised hand was a signal to stop.

Use 'stimulus' when referring to something that incites or quickens action, feeling, or thought. In biological contexts, it refers to anything that triggers a response in an organism.

• The loud noise was a stimulus that made the cat jump.
• Economic stimulus measures are designed to encourage growth.

This term is specifically used in a scientific context to describe a brief flow of electric current in a circuit or along a nerve. It is highly specific and technical.

• The heart's rhythm is controlled by electrical impulses.
• Medical devices often monitor electrical impulses to diagnose conditions.

Impulse refers to a sudden strong and unreflective urge or desire to act. It is often used in situations where someone acts without thinking things through.

• On an impulse, he decided to go on a trip to the mountains.
• She bought the dress on a sudden impulse.

A spending spree refers to a brief period of extravagant spending, often involving multiple impulsive purchases. This term usually implies a lack of restraint and can have a negative connotation.

• After receiving his bonus, he went on a spending spree that left him with little savings.
• Her weekend spending spree included buying new clothes, electronics, and dining out at expensive restaurants.

Impulsive buying refers to making purchases without planning or considering the need or consequences. This term is commonly used in the context of shopping and often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of self-control.

• Impulsive buying can lead to financial problems if not controlled.
• She regretted her impulsive buying spree at the mall.