Definition

The condition of acting without choice or control, often due to external forces or circumstances.

Example

His involuntariness in the situation made it clear that he had no control over his actions.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how our actions can sometimes show involuntariness?

Yeah, like when we react to something without even thinking about it.

Exactly! It makes you wonder how much control we really have.

True, it’s fascinating to think about our automatic responses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Involuntariness → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not), "voluntas" (meaning will or wish), and "-ness" (meaning the state of). The word describes the state of not having control over one's will or actions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') having a 'will' ('voluntas') — that's why involuntariness means the state of lacking control over one's actions.

Visually Confused Words