English Reference
adjective · noun

intuitive

adj. · n.
US /ˌɪnˈtuətɪv/ UK /ɪntjˈuːɪtˌɪv/ in·tu·itive

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Computing

    adj.easy to use or understand without needing a lot of instructions.

    adj.describing a system or interface that is self-explanatory and aligns with natural human expectations.

    Simple

    The new phone app is very intuitive, so I didn't need to read the manual.

    In context

    The software developers prioritised an intuitive layout to ensure that even first-time users could navigate the complex database without formal training.

    Usage

    Often used to describe software, tools, or design layouts.

    complexcounter intuitive
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.based on what you feel to be true rather than on facts or proof.

    adj.arising from or possessing insight without the use of rational processes.

    Simple

    She had an intuitive feeling that something was wrong, even though everything looked normal.

    In context

    His intuitive approach to investment often outperformed the rigid models used by his more traditional colleagues.

    Usage

    Commonly modifies nouns like 'feeling', 'sense', or 'understanding'.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.describes a person who is good at understanding things using their feelings.

    adj.possessing or showing a high degree of natural insight or empathy.

    Simple

    An intuitive teacher can often tell when a student is struggling before they ask for help.

    In context

    As an intuitive leader, she was able to sense the shifting morale of the department long before the official survey results were published.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical

    n.a person who has a strong ability to know things without being told.

    n.an individual who possesses or claims to possess a high degree of intuitive or psychic perception.

    Simple

    Some people believe that intuitives can sense things about the future.

    In context

    The study compared the decision-making patterns of self-described intuitives against a control group of analytical thinkers.

    perceptiveclairvoyant

The puzzle is the subject of debate because the intuitive answer is that switching should not make any difference.

The Guardian· 17 Aug 2026

The intuitive reaction is that it makes no difference.

The Guardian· 17 Aug 2026

Borrowed from Middle French intuitif, from Medieval Latin intuitivus, from Latin intueri.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin intueri
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated