instinktiv
instinctively
adverb in-STINK-teef Rare
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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