knee jerk

• Reação reflexa, automática ou impensada a uma situação, frequentemente sem refletir. Originalmente refere-se ao reflexo físico ao bater no joelho.

A reflexive, automatic, or unthinking reaction to a situation, often without careful consideration. Originally refers to the physical reflex when the knee is tapped.

1. Automatic reactionB2informal

   A quick, automatic, and often unthinking response to a situation.

   Reação automática

   • His knee-jerk reaction was to say no before thinking.
   • The government's knee-jerk response to the crisis was criticized.
   • She had a knee-jerk emotional outburst when she heard the news.

2. Reflexive actionB2formal

   A physical reflex where the leg kicks forward when the tendon below the kneecap is tapped.

   Ação reflexa

   • The doctor tested his knee-jerk reflex with a small hammer.
   • A normal knee-jerk response indicates healthy nerve function.
   • The patient's knee jerk was absent, suggesting a possible nerve issue.