adjective
impulsive
im-PUL-siv/ɪmˈpʌlsɪv/
Acting on a sudden urge without thinking first.
The impulsive shopper buys the novelty without checking the planned list.
Etymology
The pieces evoke a push that sets something in motion. An impulse became an inner stimulus to action, so an impulsive person acts on that sudden push rather than careful thought.
In context
this is the kind of thing an impulsive King does without thinking of the consequences
More examples
- His impulsive decision surprised the family.
- She regretted the impulsive purchase.
- They learned to pause before acting on impulsive urges.
Forms
impulsive
Similar words
- rash
- Rash emphasizes poor judgment or risk.
- spontaneous
- Spontaneous can be approving and need not imply recklessness.