overriding instinct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overriding instinct" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong, dominant feeling or urge that takes precedence over other thoughts or considerations. Example: "Despite the risks involved, her overriding instinct to protect her child drove her to act without hesitation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Neither intervened, with uncertainty overriding instinct.

The New York Times

Wolfe's overriding instinct is for clarity, for making the abstract visible.

The New Yorker

Its overriding instinct is to be counter-instinctual; otherwise, we could put consciousness to sleep at an early age.

The New Yorker

My overriding instinct is to keep asking the question: how does this join up?" Join our community of development professionals and humanitarians.

The Guardian

Straw said: I think it is pretty well-known that my overriding instinct in public life is to give as much information as possible as early as possible, it is not to sit on things.

The Guardian

Reeling from the news that her sister Kerry had suddenly died from a hay fever-induced asthma attack, Laura felt an overriding instinct to protect her three-year-old nephew Ryan, and vowed on the night her sister passed away to raise him as her own.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The goal, some officers said, is for the lessons learned in training to override instinct on the street.

The New York Times

"Get thee behind me, Satan," is just a way of overriding that instinct.

Huffington Post

As a result of overriding my instinct, soon after the segment aired, I felt tension on my head, neck, and shoulder.

Huffington Post

Sucker-punched parents can be at a loss as to how to react — agony has a way of temporarily overriding nurturing instincts.

The New York Times

The pit simulation, Karutz explained, can be used to test the degree to which cognitive knowledge — in this case, the knowledge that the floor does not contain a pit — is capable of overriding gut instincts and fear.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "overriding instinct" when you want to convey a sense of immediate, almost uncontrollable compulsion, particularly when it leads someone to act against reason or other considerations.

Common error

Avoid using "overriding instinct" when a more thoughtful, considered decision is being made. This phrase is best reserved for scenarios where a strong, immediate impulse takes precedence over logic or other factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overriding instinct" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "overriding" modifies the noun "instinct". It describes a powerful and dominant impulse that supersedes other considerations. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "overriding instinct" describes a dominant, compelling urge that supersedes other considerations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It is most commonly found in News & Media. Alternative phrases include "dominant impulse" or "prevailing urge". Use it to convey a sense of immediate compulsion, and avoid using it for describing deliberate or well-reasoned actions. Its descriptive nature allows it to fit into different writing registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dominant impulse

Focuses on the compelling nature of the impulse, similar to instinct, but emphasizes the driving force.

prevailing urge

Highlights the strength and prevalence of the urge, suggesting it surpasses other desires or inclinations.

compelling drive

Emphasizes the irresistible nature of the drive, suggesting an internal force that is difficult to ignore.

primary inclination

Indicates the foremost or most important inclination, suggesting a natural tendency that takes precedence.

overpowering impulse

Stresses the intensity and forcefulness of the impulse, indicating it overcomes other considerations.

predominant feeling

Focuses on the feeling that is most prominent or noticeable, suggesting it overshadows other emotions.

chief motivation

Highlights the main reason or impetus behind an action or decision, emphasizing its importance.

ruling passion

Implies a strong and controlling passion that dictates behavior and choices.

deep-seated urge

Emphasizes the ingrained and fundamental nature of the urge, suggesting it is deeply rooted in one's being.

visceral reaction

Highlights the instinctive and emotional nature of the reaction, implying a gut feeling that overrides logical thought.

FAQs

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

You can use "overriding instinct" to describe a powerful, often immediate, urge that takes precedence over other considerations. For example, "Her "overriding instinct" was to protect her children."

What's a good alternative to "overriding instinct"?

Alternatives to "overriding instinct" include "dominant impulse", "prevailing urge", or "compelling drive". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "overriding instinct" formal or informal?

"Overriding instinct" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is often found in news and media, as well as more descriptive or narrative writing.

When should I avoid using "overriding instinct"?

Avoid using "overriding instinct" when you mean a well-reasoned decision or a carefully considered choice. The phrase implies a strong, immediate impulse, so it's not appropriate when describing a deliberate action.