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acting or done quickly and without thought or care.
synonyms:impulsiverash
The word 'impetuous' comes from the Latin 'impetuosus', meaning 'violent' or 'impetuous', which is derived from 'impetus', meaning 'attack' or 'assault'. The word made its way into English in the late 14th century, initially describing a forceful or violent action.
This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and literature to describe spontaneous actions or decisions taken without careful consideration.
While not an everyday term for everyone, 'impetuous' is frequently encountered in literature and discussions about behavior, making it moderately common.
Her impetuous decision to quit her job without a backup plan surprised everyone.
He was known for his impetuous nature, often jumping into new projects without fully thinking them through.
The child's impetuous behavior led him to run into the street without looking.
The word 'impetuous' paints a vivid picture of someone who rushes headlong into action without pausing to think. Originating from Latin, it evokes a sense of energetic forcefulness, much like a sudden gust of wind. It often describes actions that are spontaneous and unplanned, which can lead to both exciting adventures and regrettable mistakes. So, the next time you find yourself acting on a whim, remember: you might just be being a little impetuous!