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impetuous

adjective

/ɪmˈpɛtjʊəs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of impetuous

Characterized by impulsiveness, rashness, and a tendency to act quickly and without careful thought or consideration of consequences.
"The impetuous investor lost all of his money by making hasty trades."

Detailed meaning of impetuous

Impetuous individuals often make decisions or take actions based on sudden emotions or instincts, rather than taking the time to weigh the pros and cons. This impulsivity can sometimes lead to hasty, ill-advised choices, and impetuous behavior is often associated with a lack of restraint and a desire for immediate gratification. While impetuousness can be a source of energy and spontaneity, it can also result in regrettable outcomes when not tempered by prudence and reflection.

Example sentences containing impetuous

1. Her impetuous decision to quit her job left her uncertain about the future.
2. The impetuous wind blew fiercely, tearing the leaves from the trees.
3. His impetuous nature often led to quick, albeit poorly thought out, decisions.
4. During their holiday, they made an impetuous decision to climb the mountain, unprepared for the tough conditions.
5. The impetuous kitten dashed around the house, knocking over everything in its path.
6. Impetuous love can sometimes lead to a lifetime of happiness, but more often, it leads to heartbreak.

History and etymology of impetuous

The adjective 'impetuous' has its roots in Latin, deriving from the word 'impetuosus.' This Latin term is related to 'impetus,' which means 'force' or 'attack.' The prefix 'im-' in Latin often conveys intensity or vigor, so 'impetuosus' signifies something marked by a strong force or impulse. Over time, in English, 'impetuous' came to describe individuals or actions characterized by impulsiveness, rashness, and a tendency to act quickly and without careful thought or consideration of consequences. Its etymology reflects the idea of a powerful and often hasty force driving one's actions, which may result in impulsive and sometimes reckless behavior.

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Further usage examples of impetuous

1. His impetuous comments during the meeting did nothing to calm the tense atmosphere.
2. She often regretted her impetuous actions but appreciated the lessons she learned from them.
3. The impetuous waves crashed against the cliff, sending plumes of water skyward.
4. His impetuous behavior during his youth led him to many adventures, but also many misfortunes.
5. The impetuous king often acted before consulting his advisors, much to their dismay.
6. Despite his normally reserved demeanor, he had an impetuous streak that showed itself in surprising ways.
7. The stock market can be impetuous, sometimes causing investors to panic.
8. The impetuous response of the public to the new policy led to numerous street protests.
9. The chef’s impetuous decision to experiment with the menu turned out to be a great success.
10. Her impetuous driving style scared her passengers but somehow always got them to their destination on time.
11. The impetuous rhythm of the jazz band energized the crowd.
12. The impetuous child rushed towards the cake, ignoring his mother's calls to wait.
13. She was typically calm and collected, but her impetuous side emerged when she was on the dance floor.
14. His impetuous enthusiasm for new technologies often made him the first among his friends to own the latest gadgets.
15. The impetuous young man rushed into the burning building without thinking.
16. "I regret my impetuous decision to quit my job," the man admitted to his friend.
17. The impetuous driver ignored the traffic signals and caused an accident.
18. "Please don't be impetuous and make a rash decision," the mother warned her daughter.
19. The impetuous puppy ran out into the street without looking both ways.
20. The impetuous politician acted on his impulses and made unpopular decisions.
21. "I know you're excited, but don't be impetuous and forget to bring your umbrella," the father reminded his son.
22. The impetuous young woman broke off her engagement after only a few months.
23. The impetuous artist created paintings without any planning or thought.
24. The impetuous athlete made reckless moves on the field and often injured himself.
25. "Don't be so impetuous and jump to conclusions before hearing all the facts," the lawyer advised his client.