ENGLISH
REFERENCE

administrative

adj.
C1 Advanced Oxford US //ədˈmɪnəˌstɹeɪtɪv// UK //ɐdmˈɪnɪstɹətˌɪv// ad·min·is·tra·tive

adj. relating to the work of managing a company, school, or organization. You use this to describe tasks like organizing files, planning meetings, or dealing with paperwork.

adj. relating to the management and execution of organizational tasks, policies, or procedures. Frequently used to distinguish clerical or operational functions from creative, technical, or strategic ones.


SIMPLE

The job involves a lot of administrative work.

CONTEXTUAL

The new manager promised to reduce the administrative burden on teachers so they could focus on their students.

COMPLEX

While the executive team sets the long-term vision, the administrative staff ensures that the daily operations align with the company's regulatory and legal obligations.

Origin

From administrate + -ive.

Usage

Typically precedes the noun it modifies; often used in professional or governmental contexts.

Pitfall

the administration workthe administrative workLearners often use the noun 'administration' as a modifier when the adjective 'administrative' is the standard colocation for describing tasks or roles.

© 2026 English Reference