Want to say instincts differently? Here are other words for instincts and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of instincts
The primary meaning of the word "instincts" refers to a natural or innate impulse, disposition, or capacity that guides an individual's behavior or decision-making.
Etymology of instincts
The word "instinct" originates from the Latin "instinctus," which is the past participle of "instinguere," meaning "to incite" or "to impel."
The term has been used in English since the 15th century to describe a natural or innate impulse or disposition, and has evolved to encompass a range of related meanings and connotations.
Synonyms
intuition
instincts
impulse
intuitionism
premonition
hunch
gut feeling
sixth sense
intuitionist
perceptivity
discernment
acumen
astuteness
shrewdness
perspicacity
acuity
keenness
sensitivity
perception
awareness
instinctiveness
congenital
innate
inborn
inherent
hereditary
genetic
predisposition
tendency
proclivity
bent
inclination
aptitude
faculty
gift
talent
ability
capacity
potential
propensity
leaning
orientation
disposition
character
nature
temperament
personality
mind
psyche
soul
spirit
subconscious
unconscious
subliminal
primal
basic
fundamental
elemental
intrinsic
essential
innate ability
inbred
ingrained
deep-seated
inmost
innermost
instinctual
visceral
emotional
intuitive
perceptive
sensitive
responsive
reactive
impassioned
ardent
fervent
zealous
enthusiastic
eager
keen
avid
interested
concerned
invested
engaged
absorbed
immersed
engrossed
enraptured
captivated
fascinated
spellbound
enthralled
Definitions
- A natural or innate impulse, disposition, or capacity that guides an individual's behavior or decision-making, often without conscious reasoning or deliberate thought.
- A complex pattern of behavior that is innate or inherited, and is often characteristic of a particular species or group.
- A strong and unreflective inclination or tendency to act in a certain way, often in response to a specific stimulus or situation.
Usage Examples
- Her instincts told her to trust him, despite his rough exterior.
- The dog's instincts led it to chase the squirrel.
- She had a strong instinct to pursue a career in the arts.
- His instincts warned him of the potential danger, and he avoided the situation.
- The company's instincts about the market trend proved to be correct.
Antonyms
reason
rationality
logic
analysis
deliberation
reflection
thought
consideration
caution
hesitation
doubt
uncertainty
fear
apprehension
misgiving
skepticism
incredulity
distrust
mistrust
wariness
leery
qualm
reservation
demur
objection
opposition
resistance
reluctance
unwillingness
disinclination
aversion
repugnance
distaste
dislike
antipathy
loathing
abhorrence
detestation