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instinctif

instinctive

adjective an-stank-TEEF Rare

Usage Note

Instinctif describes an action or reaction driven by instinct rather than conscious thought. The feminine form is instinctive, and the adverb is instinctivement ('instinctively'). It often contrasts with réfléchi ('considered') in discussions of behaviour or decision-making.

Examples

"Sa réaction fut purement instinctive."

Natural Translation

His reaction was purely instinctive.

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