impetuous
adjective C2
Plain meaning
acting too quickly because of strong feelings, without thinking carefully
Exam-register meaning
marked by rash, impulsive action driven by emotion rather than deliberation
In context
naturalHis impetuous decision to quit surprised everyone.
examThe protagonist’s impetuous behaviour reveals the conflict between desire and social duty.
Common collocations
impetuous decisionimpetuous youthimpetuous action
Watch out
Impetuous is not the same as “energetic”; it suggests a lack of careful thought.
Word family
impetuosity (noun)impetuously (adverb)