subconsciously

American  

[suhb-kon-shuhs-lee] / sʌbˈkɒn ʃəs li /

adverb

1. beneath or beyond the conscious mind.

   Your brain subconsciously processes a lot of the day’s information while you sleep.

2. without conscious understanding or desire.

   I grew up subconsciously internalizing the stereotypes I saw in movies, TV shows, and advertisements.

   I heard footsteps approaching behind me, and my pace quickened subconsciously.

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Other Word Forms

• nonsubconsciously adverb

Etymology

Origin of subconsciously

subconscious ( def. ) + -ly

Compare meaning

How does subconsciously compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• subconsciously vs. unconsciously

Example Sentences

By subconsciously mirroring even the subtlest twitches of expression and biological rhythms of other people, we can channel their thoughts and feelings.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026

“I think subconsciously it affects those who work here. It also lowers expectations, which in turn lowers patient satisfaction.”

From Salon • Jan. 8, 2026

"A lot of adaption occurs subconsciously and I'm there to provide feedback, making sure they are comfortable with what they are doing."

From BBC • Jul. 15, 2025

When I think about the energy I want to channel on the pole, a lot of the references I subconsciously pull from are musical.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2025

Now I know why I’ve been subconsciously cocooning myself in that vacuum of numbness.

From "Saints and Misfits" by S.K. Ali