Words / C1

in-VOL-uh-ntree/ɪnˈvɒləntri/

Involuntary means done without conscious control or without a real choice: an involuntary movement, an involuntary leak. Automatic (already in the dictionary) is the machine twin; voluntary sits opposite. A live mic is still an embargo breach.

Meaning

Done without conscious control or without a real choice.

Examples

• “An involuntary leak from a live mic is still an embargo breach.”
• “Automatic is already in this course. Unwitting is a cousin. A mic is kit. Midnight is a clock. Mute until the lift; then speak.”

Good to know

Not chosen; automatic or forced. Close: automatic (already in the dictionary). A live mic ≠ a lifted embargo.

Near in meaning

automatic, unwitting, unintentional

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