adj
C1
Advanced
instinctive
ihn-STIHNGK-tihv
Instinctive (adj) means coming naturally and automatically, without thinking it through. Example: “Flinching from a loud noise is an instinctive reaction.”
adj
1
Coming naturally and automatically, without thinking it through.
"Flinching from a loud noise is an instinctive reaction."
"Her instinctive response was to protect the child."
How to use instinctive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes something you do without deliberate thought — it just happens.
Common pairings
instinctive reaction
instinctive fear
purely instinctive
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more instinctive
- Superlative
- most instinctive
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Flinching from a loud noise is an _____ reaction.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for instinctive
See all rhymes for instinctive →Frequently asked questions
What does “instinctive” mean?
The word “instinctive” means coming naturally and automatically, without thinking it through. In plain terms, describes something you do without deliberate thought — it just happens.
How do you pronounce “instinctive”?
“Instinctive” is pronounced ihn-STIHNGK-tihv (/ɪnˈstɪŋktɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “instinctive” in a sentence?
Here is “instinctive” used in a sentence: “Flinching from a loud noise is an instinctive reaction.”
What part of speech is “instinctive”?
“Instinctive” is an adjective.
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