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Compulsive vs Distraught - What's the difference?

compulsive | distraught |

As adjectives the difference between compulsive and distraught

is that compulsive is uncontrolled or reactive and unconscious while distraught is deeply hurt, saddened, or worried; distressed.

As a noun compulsive

is one who exhibits compulsive behaviours.

compulsive

English

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • uncontrolled or reactive and unconscious
  • * 1990 , :
    • Under this Act, the term "disability" shall not include—...(2) compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania; or...
  • Having power to compel; exercising or applying compulsion.
  • * Sharp
    • Religion is inconsistent with all compulsive motives.

    Related terms

    * compel * compulsion * compulsory

    Derived terms

    * compulsiveness

    Noun

    (en noun)
  • One who exhibits compulsive behaviours.

    • External links

    * * * ----

    distraught

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Deeply hurt, saddened, or worried; distressed.
    • His distraught widow cried for days, feeling very alone.

    Derived terms

    * distraughtly * distraughtness

    Synonyms

    * distressed * pained