Phrase · Shopping & retail

the 'just looking' reflex

noun phrase /thuh-just-loo-king-ree-fleks/

Definition

An automatic, defensive falsehood deployed to repel eager retail workers, even when you actually need help finding a size.

In use

“She asked if I needed help and the 'just looking' reflex took over immediately.”

Filed under

anxiety
Published 3 August 2026

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The details

About this phrase

The language, classification and history attached to this Definr entry.

Language

Language form
noun phrase
Pronunciation
/thuh-just-loo-king-ree-fleks/

Classification

Life domain
Everyday life

History

Published
Last updated

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