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compulsive

kum-PUL-siv /kəmˈpʌlsɪv/

adjectiveC1GRETOEFLIELTS

formalmedicalgeneral

Resulting from or relating to an irresistible urge, especially one that is irrational or contrary to one's conscious wishes.

In addiction, 'compulsive' describes the irresistible drive to seek and use a substance, even when aware of negative consequences. It's a hallmark of addiction, distinguishing it from voluntary choice.

The story behind the word. The word 'compulsive' comes from the Latin compellere, meaning 'to drive together, force, compel.' It's formed from com- 'together, with' and pellere 'to drive.' So, a compulsive act is one where an internal force 'drives' you 'together' with the action, making it feel irresistible. This root perfectly conveys the sense of being driven by an internal, powerful urge.

Word relationships

irresistible: Too attractive and tempting to be resisted.
obsessive: Relating to or characterized by obsession, often involving persistent unwanted thoughts or urges.

voluntary: Done, given, or acting of one's own free will.
intentional: Done on purpose; deliberate.

Commonly confused with

obsessive: 'Obsessive' refers more to persistent unwanted thoughts; 'compulsive' refers to the irresistible actions or behaviors driven by those thoughts or urges.

Word family

compulsion (noun): An irresistible urge to behave in a certain way, especially against one's conscious wishes.
compel (verb): To force or oblige (someone) to do something.

Collocations

compulsive behavior
compulsive eating
compulsive shopping
compulsive gambling
compulsive urge

Example sentences

"His compulsive gambling led to significant financial ruin and strained family relationships." Describing a behavioral pattern.
"The patient exhibited compulsive behaviors, such as repetitive hand washing, which interfered with daily life." In a psychological assessment.

Memory hook

COMPULSIVE means you feel 'COMPELLED' to do something, like a powerful 'PULSE' driving you. COMPELLED PULSE

When not to use

Avoid using 'compulsive' for simple strong preferences or habits (e.g., 'I'm compulsively tidy') if you want to reserve its meaning for genuinely irresistible, often distressing, urges.

Fun facts

Compulsive behaviors are a key diagnostic criterion for many mental health conditions, including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and various addiction disorders.
The brain's reward system plays a significant role in the development of compulsive drug-seeking behaviors.