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instinktiv

instinctively

adverb in-STINK-teef Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Manner

Origin: from Latin 'instinctus'

Usage Note

Instinktiv describes a reaction that happens without conscious deliberation, driven by intuition or reflex. Sie wich instinktiv zurück means she stepped back without thinking. Contrasts with bewusst (deliberately) or überlegt (thoughtfully).

Examples

"Er griff instinktiv nach dem Geländer, als er stolperte."

Natural Translation

He instinctively grabbed the railing when he stumbled.

Literal Translation

He reached instinctively for the railing, as he stumbled.

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