lower impulses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lower impulses" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing emotions, desires, or instincts that are considered less refined or more primal. Example: "In moments of stress, it's important to manage our lower impulses to maintain control over our actions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

In this case the struggle between our higher and lower impulses will be less severe, and virtue will be triumphant".

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet Carter's Buddhism, however quickly acquired and easily forgotten, speaks for his desire to try to get the better of his lower impulses and to break free of his prison of delights.

The New York Times - Books

The age-old struggle between humanity's higher and lower impulses is the subject of her very serious, very funny, very personal show, "Piece of Meat," which opened at 54 Below on Tuesday evening.

The New York Times - Arts

The revelation of this divine character of morality is possible only to someone in whom the lower impulses have been, or are, successful in overcoming reverence for the law.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In "Boston Marriage," via the turn-of-the-century high jinks of two well-born, quarrelling lesbian lovers, Anna and Claire, and their maid, Catherine, Mamet sashays around the stage for ninety minutes in high-camp masquerade, using the pitch and roll of elegant, epigrammatic, highfalutin English to decoy the lower impulses.

The New Yorker

The benefit is especially large at lower impulses where the effective dynamic strength of the honeycomb core prevents crushing.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

In contrast, when service is poor, Singaporeans reveal lower impulse buying than do Americans.

Australasian Marketing Journal (AMJ)

It is shown that target vertical position affects impulse response comparison, and for center-buried loads, the v-shaped underbody target produces a lower impulse than that of other shaped targets.

International Journal of Impact Engineering

Negroes have lower Iqs, lower impulse control, and higher testosterone levels in generals.

Huffington Post

"Negroes have lower Iqs, lower impulse control, and higher testosterone levels in generals," it says with typos typical of the work.

Vice

They also reported less expressivity and lower impulse strength.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing moral or ethical dilemmas, use "lower impulses" to refer to the instinctive desires that may conflict with reasoned judgment.

Common error

Avoid using "lower impulses" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or technical language might be appropriate. Opt for terms like 'instinctual drives' or 'basic desires' to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lower impulses" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms that it describes basic desires or instincts, especially when contrasted with higher reasoning.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lower impulses" is a noun phrase used to describe fundamental desires or instincts, often in contrast to higher reasoning or moral considerations. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, especially in discussing internal conflicts. It is most common in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias. While grammatically correct, remember to choose precise language to match the formality of your context. Consider using alternatives like "basic instincts" or "primal urges" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basic instincts

This highlights the innate, unlearned behaviors that drive actions.

primal urges

This suggests strong, instinctual drives related to survival and reproduction.

base desires

This alternative focuses on the fundamental, often selfish, cravings or wants.

animalistic instincts

This emphasizes the raw, untamed nature of the impulses.

uncontrolled desires

Focuses on lack of restraint in relation to wishes and wants.

carnal desires

This refers specifically to physical, sensual cravings.

subconscious drives

This highlights the impulses stemming from the unconscious mind.

visceral reactions

This emphasizes the instinctive, gut-level responses.

gut feelings

This highlights the intuitive and emotional nature of the impulses.

inner demons

This refers to the internal struggles and negative impulses that one battles.

FAQs

How can I use "lower impulses" in a sentence?

You can use "lower impulses" to describe basic desires or instincts, such as, "He struggled to control his "lower impulses" when offered the tempting opportunity."

What's a good alternative to "lower impulses"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "basic instincts", "primal urges", or "base desires" as alternatives to "lower impulses".

Is it correct to say "lesser impulses" instead of "lower impulses"?

While "lesser impulses" could be understood, ""lower impulses"" is more commonly used to refer to fundamental or base desires.

In what situations should I use "lower impulses"?

Use "lower impulses" when discussing the conflict between rational thought and instinctive desires, particularly in contexts of morality, ethics, or self-control.