impetuous
Impetuous (adj) means acting suddenly and without careful thought, often forcefully. Example: “His impetuous decision to quit cost him the promotion.”
How to use impetuous
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishActing on impulse, without stopping to think things through.
Word forms
more impetuous comparative, most impetuous superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His _____ decision to quit cost him the promotion.
Etymology
From Late Latin impetuosus ("violent"), from Latin impetus ("attack, force").
Related words
Rhymes for impetuous
See all rhymes for impetuous →Frequently asked questions
What does “impetuous” mean?
The word “impetuous” means acting suddenly and without careful thought, often forcefully. In plain terms, acting on impulse, without stopping to think things through.
How do you pronounce “impetuous”?
“Impetuous” is pronounced eem-PEHT-shoo-uhs (/imˈpɛt͡ʃuəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “impetuous” in a sentence?
Here is “impetuous” used in a sentence: “His impetuous decision to quit cost him the promotion.”
What is another word for “impetuous”?
Words with a similar meaning to “impetuous” include impulsive, hasty, rash, hotheaded and heady.
What part of speech is “impetuous”?
“Impetuous” is an adjective.
Where does the word “impetuous” come from?
The word “impetuous” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin impetuosus ("violent"), from Latin impetus ("attack, force").
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