Compulsively: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes

Meaning 1：in an uncontrolled and repetitive manner (compulsively)

compulsively 🔊

/kəmˈpʌlsɪvli/

adv.

Doing something repeatedly and uncontrollably, even if you know it's not good or you want to stop.

Illustration of a person acting compulsively, repeatedly checking a smartphone screen at night.

in an uncontrolled and repetitive manner 🔊

➕

/ɪn ən ˌʌnkənˈtroʊld ənd rɪˈpɛtətɪv ˈmænər/

adv.

Describes an action done over and over again in a way that is very difficult to stop, even if the person wants to or knows it's not rational or beneficial.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From 'compel' (to force) + '-ive' (adjective suffix) + '-ly' (adverb suffix). 'Com-' (completely) + 'puls' (to drive).

💡 Mnemonic

Imagine a PULSE (heartbeat) you can't stop. COMPULSIVELY describes actions as rhythmic and UNSTOPPABLE as a heartbeat.

📖 Example

He compulsively checks his phone for new messages every few minutes, even during dinner. 🔊 He checks his phone for new messages every few minutes in an uncontrolled and repetitive manner, even during dinner.

🔗 Collocations

compulsively check – to verify something repeatedly and uncontrollably

compulsively clean – to tidy or wash repeatedly and uncontrollably

compulsively eat – to consume food repeatedly and uncontrollably

🔄 Synonyms

obsessively (adv.) – in a manner dominated by persistent, intrusive thoughts or impulses

uncontrollably (adv.) – in a manner that cannot be restrained or managed

habitually (adv.) – in a manner done by habit; regularly

🚫 Antonyms

voluntarily (adv.) – done of one's own free will; by choice

deliberately (adv.) – done consciously and intentionally

occasionally (adv.) – happening from time to time; not regularly

🌱 Derivatives

compulsive (adj.) – resulting from or relating to an irresistible urge

compulsion (n.) – an irresistible urge to behave in a certain way

compulsiveness (n.) – the quality or state of being compulsive

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Latin 'compellere' (to drive together, force). Historically linked to compulsion and driven force. In modern culture, it's frequently used in psychology and psychiatry to describe behaviors associated with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).