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automatic

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How is the word automatic distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of automatic are impulsive, instinctive, mechanical, and spontaneous. While all these words mean "acting or activated without deliberation," automatic implies action engaging neither the mind nor the emotions and connotes a predictable response.

his denial was automatic

Where would impulsive be a reasonable alternative to automatic?

While the synonyms impulsive and automatic are close in meaning, impulsive implies acting under stress of emotion or spirit of the moment.

impulsive acts of violence

When could instinctive be used to replace automatic?

The words instinctive and automatic can be used in similar contexts, but instinctive stresses action involving neither judgment nor will.

blinking is an instinctive reaction

When would mechanical be a good substitute for automatic?

In some situations, the words mechanical and automatic are roughly equivalent. However, mechanical stresses the lifeless, often perfunctory character of the response.

a mechanical teaching method

When is it sensible to use spontaneous instead of automatic?

The meanings of spontaneous and automatic largely overlap; however, spontaneous implies lack of prompting and connotes naturalness.

a spontaneous burst of applause

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of automatic
Adjective
Few others can manage such full-bodied, consistently thick extraction on automatic drip or pour-over-style coffee, while being so simple to use. Matthew Korfhage, Wired News, 23 May 2025 Military personnel on duty in combat zones may also qualify for automatic extensions. Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025
Noun
In the car world, automatics are practical and simple for the majority of commuting drivers, but enthusiasts often prefer the extra control and involvement of a clutch and a stick-shift. New Atlas, 13 Oct. 2024 For Prime Day there are a couple De’Longhi Magnifica models, the brand’s entry-level super automatics, on big sales. Noah Kaufman, Bon Appétit, 17 July 2024 See All Example Sentences for automatic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for automatic
Adjective
  • Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 23 May 2025
  • Replacement parts from companies such as Moss Motors are affordable, and anyone with basic mechanical skills can wrench on their own MG, adding a little skin—and a lot of satisfaction—into the game.
    Robert Ross, Robb Report, 23 May 2025
Adjective
  • Ensure your customer service is available where the customer wants it, engage with them promptly and empower your customer service operation with the knowledge and capability (human and automated) to provide smooth, stress-free customer service solutions.
    Michael Podolsky, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025
  • Technology defines the financial services industry, from providing real-time data and automated strategies to allowing for superior trade execution.
    David Billy, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • Shadowrun took two of the most popular genres at the time—fantasy and cyberpunk—and brought them together that allowed cyborgs to shoot machine guns at dragons.
    Rob Wieland, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025
  • These planes had multiple machine guns, held over 20,000 pounds of bombs and were especially suited to fly to Japan from bases in China during World War II, according to the National Museum of the United States Air Force.
    Kerry Breen, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Tianwen 2 marks another step forward in China's ever-advancing, ever-ambitious robotic exploration program.
    Mike Wall, Space.com, 29 May 2025
  • Though he’s filmed hundreds of interviews, Evans still looks a touch robotic on camera.
    Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 27 May 2025
Noun
  • One casing is a 9mm caliber, likely a pistol, or a machine pistol or a submachine gun, Weir said.
    Mohammad Al Sawalhi, CNN, 26 June 2024
  • Prosecutors said police found two weapons in the getaway car when the men were detained on a highway about 50 kilometers (30 miles) outside Amsterdam, a Heckler and Koch machine pistol and, in a Louis Vuitton bag, a blank-firing pistol that had been modified to take 9-millimeter rounds.
    MIKE CORDER, ajc, 18 Oct. 2021
Adjective
  • Apart from the reflex response to a jump scare, the purpose of almost any horror movie is to disturb you.
    Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 16 May 2025
  • The Loewe Grand inicio is a powerful two-way speaker with a bass reflex system and is available as a floor-standing speaker.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • Ronald McDonald pulling on a Marlboro Red, an assault rifle slung across his back while on break from operating the Happy Meal command center/ball pit?
    Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 14 May 2025
  • Officers carrying assault rifles can be seen along the edge of a crowd of students evacuated from a building on campus.
    Graham Hurley, Aaron Fisher and Katherine Jennings, CNN Money, 19 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Conversations are flirtatious and direct, so expect bold texts and spontaneous meetings.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 22 May 2025
  • Bilek said that proposals should be intentional moments, not spontaneous gestures, and partners should openly communicate expectations around commitment to avoid confusion or emotional harm.
    Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Automatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/automatic. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.

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