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Constructive - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Constructive means helpful, positive, or aimed at building something up. It is often used to describe feedback, criticism, or actions that improve a situation or encourage progress.

constructive

/kənˈstrʌktɪv/ /kənˈstrʌktɪv/

Definition:

Serving a useful purpose, promoting improvement or development.

Synonyms:

helpful, productive, positive, beneficial, useful

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

destructive, negative, harmful

Common Collocations:

constructive criticism, constructive feedback, constructive discussion, constructive approach, constructive role

Derivatives:

constructively, constructiveness

Usage Tips:

Use "constructive" to describe actions or comments that aim to improve or build rather than criticize harshly.

Common Phrases:

constructive criticism, in a constructive manner, play a constructive role

Etymology:

Derived from Latin "constructivus," meaning "able to build," from "construere" (to pile up or build).

Examples:

  • 1. Her feedback was always constructive and encouraging.
  • 2. We had a constructive meeting about the project’s progress.
  • 3. He offered some constructive advice on how to improve the design.
  • 4. A constructive attitude helps solve problems more effectively.

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