Compulsive and Obsessive

Compulsive

Compulsive adjective - Caused by or suggestive of an irresistible urge.
Usage example: his compulsive clowning around can sometimes be annoying

Obsessive is a synonym for compulsive in maniacal topic. In some cases you can use "Obsessive" instead an adjective "Compulsive", when it comes to topics like manic. popular alternative

Obsessive

Obsessive adjective - Caused by or suggestive of an irresistible urge.
Usage example: intrigued by the man's obsessive counting of everyday objects

Compulsive is a synonym for obsessive in maniacal topic. You can use "Compulsive" instead an adjective "Obsessive", if it concerns topics such as manic, all-consuming, mentally maladjusted. popular alternative

Both words in one sentence

  • His obsessive/compulsive disorder got him booted from the SFPD and makes it difficult for him to get through his day-to-day life, but it also aids him immeasurably in solving cases.
  • Useful Notes / Nikola Tesla However, a combination of poor business decisions, economic trouble, and pressures from arch-rival Thomas Edison eventually led to the end of his good fortunes, and he acquired obsessive/compulsive tendencies and other eccentricities.
  • Riddler: His obsessive-compulsive and self-sabotaging traits reflect back the obsessive and possibly self-destructive side to Batman's own personality.
Cite this Source
Obsessive and Compulsive. (2016). Retrieved 2026, July 21, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/compulsive/obsessive
Compulsive & Obsessive. N.p., 2016. Web. 21 Jul. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/compulsive/obsessive>.
Obsessive or Compulsive. 2016. Accessed July 21, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/compulsive/obsessive.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "compulsive" and "obsessive" have occurred on timeline