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Repulsive vs Compulsive - What's the difference?

repulsive | compulsive |

As adjectives the difference between repulsive and compulsive

is that repulsive is tending to rouse aversion or to repulse while compulsive is uncontrolled or reactive and unconscious.

As a noun compulsive is

one who exhibits compulsive behaviours.

repulsive

English

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • tending to rouse aversion or to repulse
  • (physics) having the capacity to repel
  • Usage notes

    * Nouns to which "repulsive" is often applied: force, interaction, potential.

    Synonyms

    * repellent * similar: disgusting, vile

    Antonyms

    * (tending to rouse aversion ) attractive * (physics, having the capacity to repel ) attractive

    Anagrams

    * ----

    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.

    Derived terms

    * compulsiveness

    Noun

    (en noun)
  • One who exhibits compulsive behaviours.