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Knee Jerk Reaction (Origin)
What Is the Origin of the Saying "Knee Jerk Reaction"?
The term "knee-jerk reaction" means a quick, automatic response.Table of Contents
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Examples of Use:
- She made a knee-jerk reaction without carefully considering the consequences of her actions.
- It's important to avoid knee-jerk reactions and instead take the time to gather information and analyze the situation.
- His knee-jerk reaction to criticism was defensive, without taking a moment to reflect on the feedback.
- Instead of reacting with a knee-jerk reaction, it's beneficial to pause and respond thoughtfully.
- She learned to control her knee-jerk reactions and respond with calmness and rationality.
The term has been used figuratively since the early 20th century as a metaphor for a sudden, unconsidered response. For example:
- Selling my travel-industry shares was a knee-jerk reaction to the first Covid-19 lockdown.
- Introducing the legislation was a knee-jerk reaction to the bombing.
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