involuntary impulse

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.

Nor was it exactly a desire that counselled him to this act; but a sort of involuntary impulse, such as the bird feels to approach the serpent that would destroy it.

From The Fatal Cord And The Falcon Rover by Reid, Mayne

At the same moment, by an involuntary impulse, I threw off my covering, and, turning my face, fixed my eyes upon my visitant.

From Arthur Mervyn Or, Memoirs of the Year 1793 by Brown, Charles Brockden

His act was probably the result of an involuntary impulse, for he stopped before he reached the girl.

From Dorothy Vernon of Haddon Hall by Major, Charles

Well, but what was the result of this involuntary impulse on my part?—Wouldst thou not think; I was taken at my offer?—An offer so solemnly made, and on one knee too?

From Clarissa Harlowe; or the history of a young lady — Volume 3 by Richardson, Samuel

These dispositions fluctuate by reason of the involuntary impulse which our organs every instant receive, on the part of an infinity of causes, either exterior to ourselves, or else contained within our own frame.

From The System of Nature, Volume 2 by Holbach, Paul Henri Thiry, baron d'