Synonyms for

Impulses

Verb / ˈɪmpʌlsɪz / / ˌɪˈmpʌlsɪz / Another word for impulses — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Impulses are sudden strong desires or urges to do something.

Synonyms & similar words

impetus urge neuralimpulse impulse momentum nervousimpulse caprice impulsion pulsation whim nerveimpulse pulsing pulse urges cravings compulsions instincts inclinations tendencies passions appetites drives impetuses motivations propensities whims fancies longings yearnings hankerings itches desires wants

Synonyms by register

Formal

urges drives instincts propensities

Informal

hunch whim urge feeling

Literary

stirrings promptings motions

Antonyms

restraint control reason calculation deliberation foresight planning

Common collocations

  • sudden impulses
  • acting on impulse
  • impulse control
  • buying impulse
  • electrical impulse
  • neural impulse
  • passing impulse
  • momentary impulse

Word family

noun impulse
verb impulse
adjective impulsive
adverb impulsively

Usage note

The word 'impulse' often refers to a sudden, involuntary urge to do something. It can also refer to an electrical signal, particularly in a scientific context.

Example sentences

  1. He had sudden impulses to dance in the rain.
  2. She felt strong impulses to help the homeless.
  3. The impulses to buy everything in the store were hard to resist.
  4. His impulses to jump off the cliff were dangerous.
  5. The impulses to tell a lie were strong but he resisted them.

Quotes

  • Impulses are the only guide to conduct, but unfortunately, not all impulses are good.
  • We are slaves to whatever we don't understand.
  • There are moments when the body is as numinous as words, days that are the good flesh continuing.

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