as in automatic
done instantly and without conscious thought or decision
the instinctive reaction of a mother is to protect her children
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Recent Examples of instinctive
Many of us are taught to think of touch as comforting – an instinctive way to offer or receive comfort and express a sense of connection.
—
Brian N. Chin, The Conversation, 16 May 2025
As Tod reaches for his radio plug, our instinctive reaction is: electrocution?
—Gayle Sequeira, Vulture, 16 May 2025
Palace also look to exploit Wharton’s instinctive ball progression from defensive set pieces.
—Thom Harris, New York Times, 15 May 2025
The industrial metaverse can capture and scale some very intricate knowledge, including the instinctive skills and judgment of veteran workers, into immersive digital twins.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for instinctive
Brian N. Chin, The Conversation, 16 May 2025
As Tod reaches for his radio plug, our instinctive reaction is: electrocution?
—Gayle Sequeira, Vulture, 16 May 2025
Palace also look to exploit Wharton’s instinctive ball progression from defensive set pieces.
—Thom Harris, New York Times, 15 May 2025
The industrial metaverse can capture and scale some very intricate knowledge, including the instinctive skills and judgment of veteran workers, into immersive digital twins.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for instinctive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for instinctive
Adjective
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Freeman has received automatic annual 3% raises, according to her contracts.—
Kristen Taketa,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
25 May 2025
-
The future of a human-humanoid future can not be left in the hands of international organisations alone, nor can it be considered as the automatic outcome of private sector progress.—
Cornelia C. Walther,
Forbes.com,
25 May 2025
Adjective
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Replacement parts from companies such as Moss Motors are affordable, and anyone with basic mechanical skills can wrench on their own MG, adding a little skin—and a lot of satisfaction—into the game.—
Robert Ross,
Robb Report,
23 May 2025
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Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.—
NC Weather Bot,
Charlotte Observer,
23 May 2025
Adjective
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The Loewe Grand inicio is a powerful two-way speaker with a bass reflex system and is available as a floor-standing speaker.—
Mark Sparrow,
Forbes.com,
16 May 2025
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Apart from the reflex response to a jump scare, the purpose of almost any horror movie is to disturb you.—
Owen Gleiberman,
Variety,
16 May 2025
Adjective
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Conversations are flirtatious and direct, so expect bold texts and spontaneous meetings.—
Valerie Mesa,
People.com,
22 May 2025
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Bilek said that proposals should be intentional moments, not spontaneous gestures, and partners should openly communicate expectations around commitment to avoid confusion or emotional harm.—
Lydia Patrick,
MSNBC Newsweek,
21 May 2025
Adjective
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Tianwen 2 marks another step forward in China's ever-advancing, ever-ambitious robotic exploration program.—
Mike Wall,
Space.com,
29 May 2025
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Though he’s filmed hundreds of interviews, Evans still looks a touch robotic on camera.—
Nicholas Quah,
Vulture,
27 May 2025
Adjective
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Home in foreclosure, a mobile mechanic Online records show that his Canby Street home was in foreclosure last year and sold in September for $60,000.—
Nick Penzenstadler,
USA Today,
14 Apr. 2025
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In the footage, a large coastal carpet python rests on a mechanic shop's floor.—
Kelli Bender,
People.com,
12 Mar. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Instinctive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instinctive. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.
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