What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reactive
Example
The company took a reactive approach to the crisis, responding to each issue as it arose. [reactive: adjective]
Example
She is a reactive person, always responding to what others say or do. [reactive: adjective]
Example
The reactive substance caused a chemical reaction when mixed with the other chemicals. [reactive: adjective]
reflexive
Example
The doctor tested his reflexes by tapping his knee with a hammer. [reflexive: adjective]
Example
She saw herself in the mirror and smiled reflexively. [reflexively: adverb]
Example
He is a very reflective person, always thinking about his own thoughts and actions. [reflective: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reactive is more commonly used than reflexive in everyday language, especially in scientific or technical contexts. Reflexive is less common but has a specific grammatical usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reactive and reflexive?
Both reactive and reflexive can be used in formal and informal contexts, but reactive is more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, which tends to be more formal.
