Instinctive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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instinctive
[ษชnหstษชลktษชv ]
Definitions
behavioral
Relating to or prompted by instinct; seemingly automatic or without thinking.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| instinctive |
Used when referring to actions or reactions that are automatic and do not involve conscious thought.
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| intuitive |
Used when referring to understanding or knowledge that comes naturally and without the need for reasoning; often related to decision making.
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| inherent |
Used to describe qualities that are a basic or permanent part of something or someone.
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| innate |
Used to describe qualities or abilities that a person or living creature is born with, often related to skills or traits.
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Examples of usage
- Her instinctive reaction was to run away from danger.
- Animals often rely on their instinctive behaviors for survival.
emotional
Arising from or acting on instinct; spontaneous and natural.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| instinctive |
Used when referring to actions or reactions that happen naturally and without thinking, often due to inherent tendencies or reflexes.
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| impulsive |
Refers to actions that are done suddenly and without careful thought, often influenced by strong emotions. This term can have a negative connotation.
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| innate |
Used to describe qualities or abilities that are present from birth, not learned or acquired.
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| automatic |
Describes actions that happen without conscious thought, typically due to repetition or learned behavior. Commonly used for mechanical or habitual responses.
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Examples of usage
- He had an instinctive feeling that something was wrong.
- The decision felt instinctive, as if he had known the answer all along.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud described instinctive behaviors as innate drives that significantly influence actions.
- Modern psychological research indicates that many decisions are made unconsciously, relying heavily on instinct.
- Intuition, often considered a form of instinctive knowledge, helps individuals navigate complex social situations without detailed analysis.
Biology
- Animals often display instinctive behaviors, like migrating birds following seasonal patterns without education.
- Instincts play crucial roles in survival, such as finding food, escaping predators, and mating.
- In some species, parental instincts drive nurturing behaviors, ensuring the survival of offspring.
Pop Culture
- Instinctive reactions are often portrayed in movies, like characters dodging danger without conscious thought.
- The concept of instincts has been popularized in various reality TV shows, showcasing human survival in extreme situations.
- Famous personalities like Steve Jobs often emphasized trusting your gut feelings as instinctive decision-making.
Literature
- In many classic novels, characters rely on their instincts to make crucial decisions, showcasing the theme of innate wisdom.
- Authors often explore characters' struggle between instinctive choices and societal expectations, creating depth and conflict.
- Nature writers frequently describe instinctive behaviors in animals, bridging the gap between human emotions and wildlife.
Origin of 'instinctive'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'instinctus', which means 'to incite or urge on' โ highlighting its spontaneous nature.
- It evolved in the early 1600s to describe natural impulses in animals and humans.
- The prefix 'in-' means 'in or on', while 'stinct' suggests a pricking or a sharp feeling, showing a deep-seated action.
The word 'instinctive' originates from the Latin word 'instinctivus', which is derived from 'instinctus', meaning 'impulse' or 'instinct'. The concept of instinct has long fascinated scientists and philosophers, as it refers to innate behaviors that are not learned but rather inherent in living beings. From animals following their instinctive survival mechanisms to humans trusting their gut feelings, the idea of instinctive actions is deeply ingrained in our understanding of behavior and decision-making.
See also: instinct, instinctively, instinctually.