Impetuous
mediumNegative toneim-PECH-oo-us
adjective
Definition
Acting or done quickly and without thought or care
Memory hook
IM-PET-uous: Acting on IMPULSE like an excited PET that leaps before looking.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“His impetuous decision to quit his job left him unemployed.”
“The impetuous youth often acted without thinking.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His ______ decision to quit his job left him unemployed.”
Show answer
impetuous
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Impetuous is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "impulsive" or "rash" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "cautious".
Related GRE Words
reckless
Heedless of danger or consequences; careless
cursory
Hasty and therefore not thorough or detailed
spontaneous
Performed or occurring as a result of a sudden inner impulse without premeditation
boorish
rude, ill-mannered, and insensitive
bootlicker
A person who behaves obsequiously to gain favor; a sycophant
condone
to overlook, forgive, or tacitly approve of an offense
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