Impulsiveness: meaning, definitions and examples

This describes someone who acts on their feelings without thinking things through. It is often used when someone makes quick decisions based on emotions.

• Her impulsiveness led her to buy the dress without checking the price.
• John's impulsiveness often gets him into trouble.

Describes behavior characterized by sudden or passionate action. Often used to indicate enthusiasm but sometimes leading to unintended consequences.

• Her impetuosity in joining the protest was admired by many.
• The young man's impetuosity led him to join the army without consulting his family.

Indicates acting or deciding without careful thought, often resulting in negative outcomes. Generally has a negative connotation.

• His rashness in quitting his job left him unemployed for months.
• You should avoid rashness and think things through before acting.

Describes behavior that shows a blatant disregard for risks or consequences. It often indicates dangerous or irresponsible actions.

• The driver's recklessness put everyone on the road at risk.
• Her recklessness with money led to significant debt.

Refers to a lack of attention or care, usually ignoring potential risks or consequences. Often used in a negative context.

• Jack's heedlessness while driving in the storm resulted in an accident.
• The heedlessness of the hikers cost them dearly when they got lost.

Similar to 'impulsiveness,' but often used in a more neutral or everyday context to refer to acting on the spur of the moment.

• His impulsiveness made him exciting to be around.
• Jessica’s impulsiveness resulted in an unplanned road trip.

This word has a more positive connotation, implying a natural, uninhibited or free-spirited way of acting without premeditation. It suggests liveliness and creativity.

• His spontaneity made the trip more enjoyable.
• She appreciated the spontaneity of their dinner plans.

This word implies unpredictability and sudden changes in mood or behavior. It often has a slightly negative connotation, suggesting a lack of reliability or steadiness.

• The CEO’s capriciousness made it difficult for employees to know what to expect.
• Her capriciousness in decisions made it challenging to plan anything long-term.

Describes hurried or rushed actions and decisions taken without allowing enough time for thought, often resulting in negative outcomes.

• Their precipitateness in launching the product led to numerous problems.
• The precipitateness of their decision was criticized by the committee.

This word is used for actions taken hastily without careful consideration, marked by forcefulness or passion. It often emphasizes recklessness and can have a negative connotation.

• His impetuousness caused the team to make strategic errors.
• She regretted her impetuousness after sending the angry email.