Definitions

impulsive

[im-puhl-siv] / ɪmˈpʌl sɪv /

ADJECTIVE

tending to act without thought

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abrupt hasty impetuous instinctive offhand passionate spontaneous violent

WEAK

ad-lib automatic careless devil-may-care emotional extemporaneous flaky gone off deep end headlong hot-and-cold intuitive involuntary jumping the gun mad precipitate quick rash sudden swift unconsidered unexpected unmeditated unpredictable unpremeditated unprompted up-and-down winging it

Antonyms

STRONGEST

calm deliberate planned sensible

WEAK

cautious considering heedful premeditative thoughtful wise

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.

Two men are entranced by her, a suave doctor played by David Niven and Richard Conte’s impulsive race-car driver.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

By comparing MRI scans with psychopathy assessment results, the researchers found that a larger striatum was linked to a stronger need for stimulation, including thrill-seeking, excitement, and impulsive behavior.

From Science Daily • May 10, 2026

Adversaries thought that Turner’s ventures could be reckless and impulsive.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Richard Edwards, defending, Lee had pleaded guilty at the first opportunity and "bitterly regrets" his impulsive actions.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

“Tzivyah was always impulsive and hotheaded. She would have left regardless.”

From Anya and the Dragon by Sofiya Pasternack

Vocabulary lists containing impulsive

List 1

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The Lightning Thief

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Dracula

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