reflexive

[ri-flek-siv] / rɪˈflɛk sɪv /

ADJECTIVE

involuntary

Synonyms

STRONGEST

compulsory forced spontaneous uncontrolled unintentional

WEAK

automatic begrudging blind conditioned grudging habitual impulsive instinctive instinctual knee-jerk obligatory reflex reluctant uncalculated unconscious unintended unmeditated unpremeditated unprompted unthinking unwilling unwitting will-less

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deliberate intended planned voluntary

WEAK

conscious intentional unforced

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.

It is an unusually nuanced take on a subject that too often generates reflexive fulminating or fawning, and a truly auspicious start to the New Museum’s new chapter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

But Chip’s need for connection and reflexive sense of entitlement proves disastrous — the story isn’t going the way he wanted, and Groff allows it to collapse on him.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

The language is reflexive, ritualized, and remarkably effective.

From Slate • Jan. 25, 2026

A simple example of reflexive consciousness is recognizing oneself in a mirror.

From Science Daily • Dec. 15, 2025

There’s something automatic, reflexive, about his level of involvement in the marketplace.

From "The Tipping Point" by Malcolm Gladwell

Vocabulary lists containing reflexive

Unwind

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Brian's Winter

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Far from the Tree

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