ENGLISH
REFERENCE

instinctively

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɪnˈstɪŋktɪvˌɫi// UK //ɪnstˈɪŋktɪvli// in·stinc·tive·ly

adv. doing something naturally without having to think or learn about it first. It describes an action that comes from a feeling inside you rather than a planned decision.

adv. performed by natural impulse or without conscious thought. Refers to an innate or automatic response to a stimulus.


SIMPLE

She instinctively reached out to catch the falling glass.

CONTEXTUAL

When the loud noise echoed through the hall, the crowd instinctively ducked for cover.

COMPLEX

Experienced pilots often react instinctively to sudden turbulence, making micro-adjustments to the controls before their conscious mind has fully processed the nature of the mechanical failure.

Origin

From instinctive + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed before the main verb or at the end of the clause to describe the nature of an action.

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