Intuitive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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intuitive

[ɪnˈtjuːɪtɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling or understanding without conscious reasoning

Perceived by intuition, without the need for conscious reasoning. Intuitive decisions are made based on instinct and gut feelings rather than logical analysis. People with intuitive personalities tend to rely on their instincts and trust their gut feelings.

Synonyms

instinctive, natural, spontaneous, unconscious.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intuitive

Typically used to describe something that is understood or learned easily without the need for conscious reasoning or deeper knowledge.

  • She has an intuitive understanding of complex mathematical concepts.
  • The software has an intuitive user interface.
instinctive

Often refers to actions or feelings that come naturally and are driven by instinct, often in response to a situation.

  • He had an instinctive reaction to pull his hand away from the hot stove.
  • Her instinctive kindness makes her very approachable.
spontaneous

Describes actions or reactions that occur without premeditation, often impulsively and based on sudden inner impulses.

  • They decided to take a spontaneous trip to the beach.
  • Her spontaneous laughter filled the room with joy.
natural

Used to describe something that is innate or inherent, without being learned or influenced by external factors.

  • He has a natural talent for music.
  • Speaking in public is a natural ability for her.
unconscious

Pertains to actions or thoughts that occur without conscious awareness, often automatically or as a result of internal processes.

  • Breathing is an unconscious activity.
  • He rubbed his face in an unconscious gesture of frustration.

Examples of usage

  • She had an intuitive feeling that something was wrong.
  • His intuitive understanding of the situation impressed everyone at the meeting.
Context #2 | Adjective

easy to understand or operate without explicit instruction

Designed to be easily understood or used without the need for explicit instruction. Intuitive interfaces are user-friendly and require minimal training. Intuitive software adapts to the user's behavior and preferences.

Synonyms

accessible, simple, straightforward, user-friendly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intuitive

Use when describing something that is easy to understand or operate, often because it feels natural or obvious without needing much explanation.

  • The new smartphone has an intuitive interface
  • The software is intuitive to use
user-friendly

Use when talking about products, systems, or services designed to be easy for everyone to use, regardless of technical skill or prior experience.

  • The new software is very user-friendly
  • The website redesign focused on creating a more user-friendly experience
simple

Use when you mean that something is not complex or complicated, often involving few steps or components.

  • The instructions are simple to follow
  • The recipe is simple and only requires a few ingredients
accessible

Use when you want to emphasize that something is easy to reach, use, or understand, especially for people with different abilities or those who are not very familiar with the subject.

  • The website is accessible to people with disabilities
  • The museum aims to make art accessible to everyone
straightforward

Use when something is clear and direct, often without any hidden difficulties or complexities.

  • The process to apply for a visa is straightforward
  • The answer to the math problem is straightforward

Examples of usage

  • The new smartphone has an intuitive interface that makes navigation simple.
  • The software's intuitive design allows users to perform tasks efficiently.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Intuition is often seen as an unconscious process, where our brain quickly analyzes past experiences to make decisions.
  • Research suggests that people sometimes rely more on their intuition than on logical reasoning, especially under stress.

Technology

  • User interface design frequently aims for intuitive experiences, allowing users to navigate systems effortlessly based on natural instincts.
  • Smart devices increasingly utilize machine learning, which mimics intuitive decision-making by analyzing user behavior over time.

Pop Culture

  • In popular media, intuitive characters often solve problems quickly, showcasing an ability to 'just know' what to do.
  • The concept appears in self-help literature, emphasizing how trusting your instincts can lead to personal success.

Education

  • Many educational theories advocate for fostering intuitive thinking, as it can boost creativity and problem-solving skills in students.
  • Teaching methods that build on intuitive understanding help learners grasp concepts more naturally, bridging theory and practice.

Origin of 'intuitive'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'intuitus', meaning 'to look at', which highlights the idea of immediate understanding.
  • It has been used in English since the early 19th century, initially referring to knowledge gained by direct perception.

The word 'intuitive' comes from the Latin word 'intuitivus', meaning 'seen by the mind'. The concept of intuition has been studied and debated by philosophers and psychologists for centuries, with some viewing it as a form of unconscious reasoning and others as a separate cognitive process. The modern usage of 'intuitive' reflects a balance between instinctual understanding and ease of use in design and decision-making.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,864 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.