an impulse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an impulse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a sudden strong urge or desire to act in a certain way. Example: "She felt an impulse to call her friend after hearing the news."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He says "Hello" on an impulse.

The New Yorker

Second: an impulse to organise labour.

Independent

So what is an impulse?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

— Bad: I'm an impulse shopper.

The Washington Post

"It was an impulse buy.

The Guardian - Music

"It's not an impulse purchase," he said.

The New York Times

You have an impulse to consume now.

Yale University

It's modulation by an impulse train.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Finally, an impulse purchase I wouldn't regret.

The New York Times - Food

But it's an impulse to be resisted.

The New York Times - Books

She had an impulse to say, "Woof".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an impulse" to explain sudden decisions or unexpected purchases, adding depth and understanding to the narrative.

Common error

While "an impulse" is suitable for describing spontaneous actions or desires, avoid overusing it in formal or professional writing. In these contexts, consider using more precise and deliberate language to convey thoughtful decision-making or strategic planning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an impulse" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is frequently used to describe a sudden desire or urge. The phrase is very usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

30%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an impulse" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that describes a sudden urge or desire. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is perfectly acceptable in English writing. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Academic contexts and serves to explain spontaneous actions or feelings. While versatile, it's important to consider the register and avoid overuse in formal writing, where more precise language may be appropriate. Remember that alternatives like "a sudden urge" or "a spontaneous desire" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sudden urge

Focuses on the suddenness and compelling nature of the feeling.

a spontaneous desire

Highlights the unplanned and immediate nature of the wish.

an immediate inclination

Emphasizes the promptness and natural tendency towards something.

a fleeting impulse

Stresses the short-lived nature of the urge.

a strong urge

Highlights the intensity and difficulty to resist the desire.

an uncontrollable urge

Focuses on the lack of control over the feeling.

an instinctive reaction

Indicates a response based on instinct rather than conscious thought.

a gut feeling

Implies an intuitive sense or immediate understanding.

a passing whim

Suggests a light and frivolous desire.

a momentary urge

Focuses on the brief duration of the impulse.

FAQs

How can I use "an impulse" in a sentence?

You can use "an impulse" to describe a sudden urge or desire to do something. For example, "She bought the shoes on "an impulse"." or "He had "an impulse" to run away."

What are some alternatives to saying "an impulse"?

Some alternatives include "a sudden urge", "a spontaneous desire", or "an immediate inclination". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "on an impulse" or "out of an impulse"?

"On "an impulse"" is the correct and more common idiom. "Out of an impulse" is less frequently used and may sound awkward.

What's the difference between "an impulse" and "a whim"?

While both refer to sudden desires, ""an impulse"" suggests a stronger, more compelling urge, while "a whim" implies a lighter, more frivolous desire.