as in spontaneous
done in immediate response to something especially without thinking or planning
He realized his aggressive response to their criticisms had been reactive. The board stressed the need for a less reactive and more proactive approach to problem-solving.
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Recent Examples of reactive
The move suggests a broader shift in Tehran, where a new generation of leaders is increasingly abandoning the cautious, reactive approach that long defined the Islamic Republic’s strategy towards its adversaries.
—
Abbas Al Lawati,
CNN Money,
10 June 2026
The highly reactive halves can then react with other molecules to form new molecules at considerably lower temperatures than would have otherwise been required.
—
Chris Lee,
ArsTechnica,
9 June 2026
The Moon in Pisces squares Uranus in Gemini at 1:21 am EDT, making feelings reactive when plans, messages, or expectations shift.
—
Tarot.com,
Hartford Courant,
7 June 2026
That gentler profile is one reason lactic acid is often recommended for dry, reactive, or easily irritated skin types.
—
Christa Joanna Lee,
Allure,
3 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for reactive
Abbas Al Lawati,
CNN Money,
10 June 2026
The highly reactive halves can then react with other molecules to form new molecules at considerably lower temperatures than would have otherwise been required.
—
Chris Lee,
ArsTechnica,
9 June 2026
The Moon in Pisces squares Uranus in Gemini at 1:21 am EDT, making feelings reactive when plans, messages, or expectations shift.
—
Tarot.com,
Hartford Courant,
7 June 2026
That gentler profile is one reason lactic acid is often recommended for dry, reactive, or easily irritated skin types.
—
Christa Joanna Lee,
Allure,
3 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for reactive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reactive
Adjective
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First, bringing tried-and-true basics allows for spontaneous styling, rather than trying to plan every outfit ahead of time.
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The spontaneous pregnancy was so rare that even some medical professionals struggled to explain its odds.
Adjective
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Driving through deep water can also negatively affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
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Of the two teams Genesis fielded, one was forced out early due to mechanical issues, but the other team finished, placing 13th in a field of 62 (though not all teams finished the race).
Adjective
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Miller got a fly ball out that moved the automatic runner to third base and then a strikeout before a single by Wyatt Langford brought in a run.
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The youngest of five siblings, she was born just one month after the country rescinded automatic birthright citizenship.
Adjective
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Smoke invades their businesses, even their sleep Inside MV Automotive at East Olympic Boulevard and Alma Avenue, Manny Villasenor, whose father owns the mechanic shop, said the smoke had forced him to close earlier.
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After developing a page-numbering device with fellow inventor Soulé, the mechanic Glidden encouraged Sholes to adapt the idea to put letters on the page.
Adjective
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As the protagonist Ben in Night of the Living Dead (1968), Duane Jones unveiled a distinct facet of pre-conditioned Black martyrdom.
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The new formula is infused with a luscious blend of flower oils so that lashes feel conditioned and supple to the touch.
Adjective
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The questions Campbell needs to answer are simple.
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Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple.
Cite this Entry
“Reactive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reactive. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.
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