What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
instinctively
Example
The baby instinctively reached out to grab the toy. [instinctively: adverb]
Example
She instinctively knew that something was wrong. [instinctively: adverb]
spontaneously
Example
The crowd spontaneously erupted into cheers. [spontaneously: adverb]
Example
He spontaneously decided to take a day off from work. [spontaneously: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spontaneously is more commonly used than instinctively in everyday language. Spontaneously is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while instinctively is less common and refers to a more specific type of behavior or action.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between instinctively and spontaneously?
Both instinctively and spontaneously can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but instinctively may be more associated with technical or scientific language due to its connection to innate knowledge or behavior.
