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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
Controversial Florida law may come into play The unusual case could also be one of the first to fall under Florida’s newest and controversial law, the automatic death sentence of any undocumented immigrant convicted of a capital offense. Charles Rabin, Miami Herald, 28 Feb. 2025 In addition, the model retains its functionality, offering both dual time zone and date functions powered by the automatic Caliber LF230.02 featuring a double direct impulse natural escapement. Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 28 Feb. 2025
Noun
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 However, the delay doesn’t change the outcome: The CFP will shift the access format from six automatic qualifiers and six at-large bids to five automatics and seven at-larges. Jon Wilner, The Mercury News, 13 Jan. 2024 See All Example Sentences for automatic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for automatic
Adjective
  • When first announced in 2011, the Aston Martin Cygnet piqued global interest: a tiny sub 845kg (curb weight) hatchback with Aston mechanical gubbins.
    Matthew MacConnell, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025
  • The concept is similar to reflectors on a runway that help guide landing airplanes, and the LRA can operate without the need for power or mechanical control.
    Josh Dinner, Space.com, 27 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Based on my experience working with enterprises adopting AI, here are key considerations for successful implementation: • Start With Strong Foundations: Before adding services, ensure your infrastructure layer is robust and automated.
    Vinod Bijlani, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025
  • Some of the automated and quicker processes introduced to enroll and re-enroll during the pandemic have since been phased out, and this has started to affect the numbers of those who participate.
    Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • British Navy personnel stationed in the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea had seen how fast Arab dhows secretly armed with a three-pounder gun and a machine gun successfully defeated pirates and slave raiders.
    Sean Kingsley, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Feb. 2025
  • Even if machine guns and other military-grade weapons were used by civilians, why apologize for it?
    Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The Super Heavy booster successfully returned to its launch site and settled onto the tower’s robotic arms.
    Denise Chow, NBC News, 7 Mar. 2025
  • Cardiologists were unable to obtain catheter supplies, and other surgeons could not get robotic supplies, Koenig wrote in her July report.
    Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 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
  • Engineered to deliver booming bass at all volume levels, the speaker sports dual 58mm tweeters, a 165mm bass driver, a bass reflex tube and BlueAnt’s signature psycho-acoustic bass.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
  • Common triggers include dehydration from illness, vasovagal syncope—a reflex response to nausea or pain—abnormal heart rhythms, and heart valve conditions such as aortic stenosis.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 6 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Police say some of the gangs involved in the ongoing insurgency have also managed to acquire a fresh batch of assault rifles since late February.
    Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2025
  • State special agents and the Roseville Police SWAT team raided Berman’s home on Nov. 12, seizing eight assault rifles and a silencer, Bonta said in a news release.
    Sharon Bernstein, Sacramento Bee, 19 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Creates opportunities for mentorship and career development through spontaneous interactions.
    Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025
  • Those days of spontaneous travel and memorable experiences don't have to be over.
    Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report, Fox News, 25 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Automatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/automatic. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

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