Study for the SAT Vocabulary 2025 Test. Master vocabulary with flashcards and questions, each with detailed explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The term "impetuous" refers to actions or decisions that are made quickly and without careful thought, resulting in impulsiveness and a tendency to act rashly. This aligns perfectly with the meaning conveyed in the choice "impulsive and rash."

In context, describing someone's behavior as impetuous often suggests that they jump into situations without fully considering the consequences, showcasing a lack of deliberation. This term is often used in literary and everyday language to indicate a vibrant yet potentially reckless approach to decision-making and actions.

The other choices present contrasting characteristics, emphasizing carefulness, thoughtfulness, and caution, which do not match the definition of "impetuous."