# impulsively

/ˌɪmˈpəɫsɪvɫi/ (US) · /ɪmpˈʌlsɪvli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/impulsively
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

doing something quickly without stopping to think first. You do it because you feel like it right now.

For teachers: without forethought or deliberation, driven by sudden impulse rather than reasoned planning. Often describes hasty decisions, remarks, or purchases made on the spur of the moment.

## Examples

- She buys clothes impulsively when she feels stressed.
- He quits his job impulsively after an argument with his manager and regrets it the next morning.
- She accepts the overseas posting impulsively, drawn by the promise of adventure, only to confront the quiet cost of a decision made without weighing its long-term consequences.

## Synonyms

impetuously, rashly

## Antonyms

deliberately, carefully, thoughtfully

## Pitfalls

- Not "He acted impulsive" but "He acted impulsively" — Learners use the adjective 'impulsive' where the adverb 'impulsively' is required to modify the verb.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed after the verb or at the end of the clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.