Spontaneous
mediumPositive tonespon-TAY-nee-us
adjective
Definition
Performed or occurring as a result of a sudden inner impulse without premeditation
Memory hook
SPONT-aneous: acting on your own SPONTE (will) - unplanned and natural, like a surprise road trip.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Their spontaneous decision to travel led to a great adventure.”
“The audience gave a spontaneous round of applause.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Their ______ decision to travel led to a great adventure.”
Show answer
spontaneous
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Spontaneous is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "impulsive" or "impromptu" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "deliberate".
Related GRE Words
impetuous
Acting or done quickly and without thought or care
inadvertent
Not resulting from or achieved through deliberate planning
reckless
Heedless of danger or consequences; careless
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
abstract
Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
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