What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
instinct
Example
The baby bird had the instinct to open its beak when the mother bird approached. [instinct: noun]
Example
I had an instinctual feeling that something was wrong. [instinctual: adjective]
intuition
Example
My intuition tells me that we should take a different route. [intuition: noun]
Example
She had an intuitive understanding of the situation. [intuitive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intuition is more commonly used than instinct in everyday language. Intuition is a versatile term that can be applied to various contexts, while instinct is more limited in scope and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between instinct and intuition?
Both instinct and intuition can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, intuition may be perceived as more formal or intellectual due to its association with conscious thought and decision-making.
