Intuitive - Wikipedia-style Article

Intuitive

Definition

Intuitive is an adjective meaning (1) using or based on what one feels to be true without conscious reasoning; instinctive; (2) easy to use or understand without need for explicit instruction; or (3) (in philosophy/psychology) apprehended directly, without inference. As a noun (rare), it may refer to a person who relies strongly on intuition.

Parts of Speech

Adjective
Noun (rare)

Pronunciation

American & British English

IPA: /ɪnˈtuːɪtɪv/ or /ɪnˈtjuːɪtɪv/
Respelling: in-TOO-i-tiv / in-TYOO-i-tiv

Etymology

Early 19th century: from intuition + -ive. Ultimately from Latin intueri “to look upon, consider.” Originally philosophical, denoting knowledge perceived directly, it later broadened to mean “instinctive understanding.”

Derivatives

intuitively (adverb) — in a manner based on intuition or instinct
intuitiveness (noun) — the quality of being intuitive

Synonyms

instinctive
spontaneous
innate
natural
perceptive
self-evident
user-friendly (for design/technology sense)

Antonyms

analytical
deliberate
reasoned
counterintuitive

Usage

Adjective: “She had an intuitive grasp of human emotions.” / “The software interface is highly intuitive, even for beginners.” / “He made an intuitive decision without analyzing the data.”

Related Terms

Intuition: The ability to understand something immediately, without conscious reasoning.
Insight: Deep understanding of a person, situation, or concept.
Instinct: An innate pattern of thought or behavior.
Counterintuitive: Contrary to what one’s intuition would expect.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

Using or based on instinctive understanding without rational analysis.
- Example: “Her intuitive response proved to be correct.”
Easy to use or comprehend without detailed instruction.
- Example: “The phone’s intuitive controls appealed to users of all ages.”
Apprehended directly, without inference or reasoning (philosophical/psychological).
- Example: “Some truths are intuitive rather than demonstrable.”