instinctive

[in-stingk-tiv] / ɪnˈstɪŋk tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

reflex, automatic

Synonyms

STRONGEST

impulsive ingrained inherent innate intuitive natural spontaneous visceral

WEAK

accustomed by seat of one's pants congenital habitual inborn instinctual intrinsic intuitional involuntary knee-jerk mechanical native normal regular rooted second-nature typical unlearned unmeditated unpremeditated unprompted unthinking

Antonyms

STRONGEST

acquired extrinsic learned

WEAK

conscious deliberate meditated reasonable sensible

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When a nameless secretary drops a sheaf of papers, Kornev’s response to help is instinctive, yet we cringe at the careless faux pas he commits in this unfeeling society.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Parkinson was more accepting of the decision, refusing to blame Brunt for his instinctive goalline touch and suggesting Moore's header would have hit the post.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

“He has an instinctive appreciation of the Disney brand, and a deep understanding of what resonates with our audiences.”

From MarketWatch • Feb. 3, 2026

In fact, the creature possesses an instinctive benevolence, which is corrupted by rejection.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 16, 2026

Arthur adored his rose-petalled Guenever for her dash, and had an instinctive respect for Lancelot, which was soon to become affection.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White

Vocabulary lists containing instinctive

List 1

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"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, Chapters 26–31

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"The Veldt" by Ray Bradbury

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