Synonyms for

Impulsive

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

Definition

tending to act on impulse rather than thought; acting or done suddenly and without planning

Synonyms & similar words

hotheaded brainish tearaway capricious impetuous driving unprompted whimsical madcap spontaneous unplanned hasty rash reckless careless heedless thoughtless unthinking unpremeditated unintentional unstudied unwary uncontrolled unbridled uninhibited impetuous precipitate headlong sudden

Synonyms by register

Formal

hasty rash precipitate unthinking

Informal

acting on impulse spur-of-the-moment knee-jerk shoot-from-the-hip

Literary

headlong impetuous sudden

Antonyms

deliberate cautious planned thoughtful measured prudent controlled

Common collocations

  • impulsive decision
  • impulsive buyer
  • impulsive action
  • impulsive behavior
  • impulsive nature
  • impulsive spending
  • impulsive remark

Word family

noun impulse
adverb impulsively

Usage note

Often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of control or foresight. While 'impetuous' is a close synonym, it can sometimes imply a more spirited or passionate, rather than simply thoughtless, action.

Example sentences

  1. She made an impulsive purchase of a candy bar at the grocery store checkout.
  2. He regretted his impulsive decision to quit his job without having another one lined up.
  3. The impulsive child couldn't resist touching the hot stove.
  4. Her impulsive behavior often got her into trouble.
  5. The driver's impulsive swerve caused an accident on the highway.

Quotes

  • Being impulsive has gotten me into a lot of trouble in the past.
  • I'm trying to learn to think before I act instead of being so impulsive.
  • I'm not a planner, I'm naturally impulsive.

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