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adj B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

impulsive

ihm-PUHL-sihv

Impulsive (adj) means acting suddenly on urges or feelings, without thinking things through first. Example: “His impulsive decision to buy the car surprised everyone.”

adj
1
Acting suddenly on urges or feelings, without thinking things through first.
"His impulsive decision to buy the car surprised everyone."
"She's known for being impulsive, always changing plans at the last minute."

How to use impulsive

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishQuick to act on a whim, without stopping to think about consequences.

Common pairings
impulsive decision impulsive behaviour impulsive spending

Word forms

more impulsive comparative, impulsives plural, most impulsive superlative

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Test yourself on “impulsive” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

His _____ decision to buy the car surprised everyone.

Etymology

From Middle French impulsif, from Latin impulsivus.

Origin: Latin

rash hasty impetuous spontaneous reckless spur-of-the-moment

Related words

Rhymes for impulsive

See all rhymes for impulsive →

Frequently asked questions

What does “impulsive” mean?

The word “impulsive” means acting suddenly on urges or feelings, without thinking things through first. In plain terms, quick to act on a whim, without stopping to think about consequences.

How do you pronounce “impulsive”?

“Impulsive” is pronounced ihm-PUHL-sihv (/ɪmˈpʌlsɪv/ in IPA).

How do you use “impulsive” in a sentence?

Here is “impulsive” used in a sentence: “His impulsive decision to buy the car surprised everyone.”

What part of speech is “impulsive”?

“Impulsive” is an adjective.

Where does the word “impulsive” come from?

The word “impulsive” comes from Latin. From Middle French impulsif, from Latin impulsivus.

Is “impulsive” a common word?

“Impulsive” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial