initial reaction

[ɪˈnɪʃəl riˈækʃən]
nounpl: initial reactions
reação inicial
1. The first response or emotional response to something that happens immediately without much thought
My initial reaction to the news was shock and disbelief.
Minha reação inicial à notícia foi de choque e descrença.
2. An immediate involuntary response before rational deliberation
Her initial reaction was to laugh, but then she realized the seriousness of the situation.
Sua reação inicial foi rir, mas depois ela percebeu a seriedade da situação.
3. The first chemical or physical response in a process or system
The initial reaction between the two substances was highly exothermic.
A reação inicial entre as duas substâncias foi altamente exotérmica.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, 'initial reaction' is commonly used in casual conversation to acknowledge that one's first response might differ from a more considered opinion. In Brazil, it's often used to explain behavior or decisions made spontaneously, reflecting the cultural value placed on authenticity and emotional expression.
NYC Slang
gut reaction or first take
Synonyms / Sinônimos
first responseimmediate reactionspontaneous responsegut reactionknee-jerk reactionfirst impression
Antonyms / Antônimos
delayed reactionconsidered responsethoughtful reactionfinal reaction

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
reação inicial
Standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
reação de primeira
More colloquial, informal usage
São Paulo
reação inicial
Standard formal usage in business contexts
Portugal
reacção inicial
Portuguese spelling with 'ç'; same meaning and usage

Related Words

reactionresponseinstinctimpulseemotionreflex

Related Idioms & Phrases

go with your gut
off the top of your head
at first blush
shoot from the hip
act on instinct
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