Instinctually: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to 'instinctively', but less commonly used. It also describes actions or behaviors driven by instinct rather than thought or reasoning.

• Birds instinctually know when to migrate.
• She instinctually protected her child from harm.

Used when referring to a quality or ability that a person is born with. It emphasizes that something is natural and not acquired through learning.

• She is innately talented in music.
• Humans are innately social creatures.

Used when describing an understanding or knowledge that comes from an inner sense without the need for reasoning or evidence. It is often linked to a 'gut feeling'.

• He intuitively knew that something was wrong.
• She was able to solve the problem intuitively.

Used to describe actions or feelings that arise naturally and without conscious thought. Often associated with immediate reactions or responses.

• He instinctively grabbed her hand when the car swerved.
• Animals often act instinctively in dangerous situations.