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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 negatively affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 4 June 2025
  • Most mechanical keyboards use a flat ribbon cable to connect the PCB to the bottom case.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 4 June 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
  • Weapons experts said the rate of gunfire heard in the footage, as well as images of bullets retrieved from victims, were consistent with machine guns used by the Israeli military that can be mounted on tanks.
    Jeremy Diamond, CNN Money, 4 June 2025
  • This conflict, ensnared in trench warfare, is reminiscent of the battlefields of Europe in World War I, where the machine gun and tank notably became revolutions in military affairs; the small drone is this generation’s change to modern warfare.
    Bill Edwards, Forbes.com, 3 June 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
  • 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
  • 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
Noun
  • The independent dealer Catalina Pawn in Tucson, Arizona, sold 132 pistols, assault rifles and rifle receivers to three people between Oct. 29, 2021, and Feb. 7, 2022.
    Sean Campbell, The Conversation, 23 May 2025
  • Militants armed with assault rifles entered Baisaran valley, a popular tourist spot, and 26 civilians were killed.
    Jasreen Mayal Khanna, AFAR Media, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • For travelers looking for nearby, spontaneous adventures, Airbnb’s summer report also shares the top trending domestic destinations among US guests this summer, with unique stays ranging from cozy cabins to beach house retreats.
    Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
  • Yet for shows like the one in Houston, Erivo is aiming for something looser, more spontaneous, slightly lower-key.
    Mikael Wood, Los Angeles Times, 4 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Automatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/automatic. Accessed 7 Jun. 2025.

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