conative

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "conative" is correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to the intent or purpose of an action or behaviour, and is typically used in the context of cognitive psychology. For example, "The conative element of the behaviour was unclear."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This unique fusion of the intellectual and the conative life the life of desire and action receives its most dramatic expression in Plato's doctrine of love, or eros.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The cognitive function of language refers to its employment for the transmission of factual information; by expressive function is meant the indication of the mood or attitude of the speaker (or writer); and by the conative function of language is meant its use for influencing the person one is addressing or for bringing about some practical effect.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These terms may be translated, in the present context, as the cognitive, the expressive, and the conative (or instrumental) functions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In response, the action-based theorist may hold that these attitudes are not true desires at all but only related conative attitudes: wishes, perhaps.

SEP

It is interesting to consider why these epistemic, affective, and conative realms contain no claims, powers, or immunities.

SEP

Meinong's application of the serious/fantasy distinction to all kinds of mental acts (including the affective and conative dimension) may seem too schematic and controversial, but leads to remarkable insights into phenomena like art, into understanding the role of emotions in writing and reading fiction, for example.

SEP

Suppose instead, as moral noncognitivism maintains, that moral judgments express desires or other conative states what philosophers sometimes call "pro-attitudes".

SEP

Desire is an attitude that is conative rather than cognitive: it has a world-to-mind fit.

SEP

For in that case the emotions will be understood precisely in terms of their failure to promote the smooth working of the cognitive and conative functions.

SEP

The expression is meant to sum up the contrast between cognition and the conative orientation, in which success is defined in terms of the opposite, world-to-mind, direction of fit (Searle 1983).

SEP

Thus Velleman (1999) argues that robust concern views, by understanding love merely as a matter of aiming at a particular end (viz., the welfare of one's beloved), understand love to be merely conative.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing mental processes, use "conative" to specifically highlight the aspect of volition or striving, distinguishing it from cognitive (knowing) and affective (feeling) components.

Common error

Avoid using "conative" interchangeably with "cognitive" or "affective". "Conative" specifically refers to the aspect of striving or volition, while "cognitive" relates to knowledge and understanding, and "affective" relates to emotions and feelings. Using the wrong term can obscure the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The word "conative" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe something related to striving, effort, or volition. Ludwig AI shows that it is often used in philosophical and psychological contexts to differentiate aspects of the mind.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Formal & Business

8.3%

Less common in

News & Media

8.3%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "conative" denotes something relating to striving, volition, or effort. As Ludwig AI indicates, it frequently appears within academic and scientific literature, particularly in discussions about psychology and philosophy. Its function is to specifically address the intentional or volitional aspect of actions and mental processes, setting it apart from the cognitive and affective domains. When writing, use "conative" to add precision when discussing the intent behind behaviors. Common errors involve confusing it with the cognitive or affective, remember that "conative" deals with striving. Consider using "volitional" or "motivational" as potential substitutes depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

volitional

Focuses specifically on the exercise of will or conscious choice.

motivational

Emphasizes the aspect of providing a reason or incentive to act.

striving

Highlights the effortful and ongoing nature of pursuing a goal.

intentional

Indicates a deliberate and purposeful quality in actions.

purposive

Suggests that something is done with a clear aim or goal in mind.

teleological

Implies a focus on the ultimate purpose or end goal.

active

Highlights engagement and agency in pursuing goals.

dynamic

Emphasizes the changing and evolving nature of effort.

endeavoring

Similar to "striving" but suggests a more formal or significant effort.

aspiring

Suggests a desire to achieve something great or ambitious.

FAQs

How is "conative" typically used in a sentence?

The word "conative" is typically used to describe the aspect of mental processes related to volition or striving. For example: "The "conative function" of language aims to influence the person being addressed."

What's the difference between "conative", "cognitive", and "affective"?

"Conative" relates to volition or striving, "cognitive" refers to knowledge and understanding, and "affective" pertains to emotions and feelings. These terms describe different aspects of mental processes.

Are there situations where the term "motivational" could replace "conative"?

In some contexts, "motivational" can be a suitable substitute for "conative", particularly when emphasizing the driving force behind actions. However, "conative" is more specific to the aspect of volition itself, while "motivational" focuses on what prompts action.

Can you provide examples of "conative" abilities?

Examples of "conative abilities" include the capacity to set goals, make decisions, and persist in the face of obstacles. These abilities relate to the volitional aspect of behavior.