a strong instinct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strong instinct" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a powerful or deep-seated feeling or intuition about something. Example: "She had a strong instinct that something was not right in the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

"They're driven by such a strong instinct to follow those rains that they cross the river.

The Washington Post

"Sometimes you have such a strong instinct, you don't need to have an audition.

The New York Times - Arts

Guyton had a strong instinct for reform, which is best illustrated by his work on the improvement of chemical nomenclature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But other species, including bluefin tuna, apparently have a strong instinct to spawn in a specific part of the ocean.

The New York Times

This is a hard truth to absorb, since we all would have a strong instinct to flee.

The New York Times

I thought I'd build a business that was perfect for me and see if anyone agreed – I had a strong instinct that people want amazing coffee.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Some birds have a stronger instinct than others.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Although a bull rhino will fight another bull rhino for the dubious & sometimes fatal pleasures of the marital bed, forgetfulness is a stronger instinct for them than bellocity.

The New Yorker

If they are mixed with a hound, they may have a stronger instinct to hunt and bark.

WikiHow

I have got a very strong instinct that we can do a hell of a lot better, and I hope that comes out in the wash.

The Economist

"I usually have a very strong instinct when I read a script," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider if a more specific term might be appropriate, depending on the context. For example, use "a strong survival instinct" or "a strong maternal instinct" to add precision.

Common error

Don't use "a strong instinct" when you mean a well-reasoned conclusion or calculated decision. Instincts are often contrasted with logic and reason.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong instinct" typically functions as a noun phrase, where "instinct" is the head noun and "strong" is an adjective modifying it. The article "a" indicates that it is a non-specific instance. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

12%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strong instinct" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe a powerful, innate feeling or intuition. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is correct across various contexts. While versatile, it's important to distinguish instinct from reasoned thought. The phrase appears frequently in news and media sources, and its alternatives include phrases like ""a powerful intuition"" or ""a gut feeling"", depending on the desired nuance. Remember to consider the specific context when using "a strong instinct" to ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a powerful intuition

Emphasizes the strength and source of the feeling as coming from within.

a gut feeling

Implies a more visceral and less reasoned sense of knowing.

a deep-seated intuition

Highlights the deeply rooted nature of the instinct.

a natural inclination

Suggests an inherent tendency or preference.

an ingrained feeling

Focuses on the established and persistent nature of the sensation.

a compelling urge

Highlights the irresistible nature of the instinct.

a profound sense

Emphasizes a meaningful perception about something.

an inherent drive

Focuses on the innate motivational aspect.

an innate sense

Focuses on the inherent characteristic of the feeling.

a subconscious feeling

Suggests the feeling is operating outside of conscious awareness.

FAQs

How can I use "a strong instinct" in a sentence?

You can use "a strong instinct" to describe an innate feeling or intuition, as in "She had "a strong instinct" that something was wrong" or "His "a strong instinct" told him to turn back."

What are some alternatives to "a strong instinct"?

Alternatives include "a powerful intuition", "a gut feeling", or "a deep-seated intuition", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to trust "a strong instinct" or logic?

Whether to trust "a strong instinct" or logic depends on the situation. Instinct can be valuable in situations requiring quick decisions, while logic is generally better for complex problem-solving. Ideally, balance both.

What's the difference between "a strong instinct" and "a hunch"?

"A strong instinct" suggests a more powerful and compelling feeling than "a hunch". A hunch is often a weaker, less defined feeling or guess.