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affirmative

adj. · n. · interj.
US //əˈfɝmətɪv// UK //ɐfˈɜːmətˌɪv// af·fir·ma·tive
  1. 1 agreeing or saying yes (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    showing that you agree or that the answer is 'yes'.

    expressing agreement or consent; asserting that something is true or valid.

    Example

    The committee gave an affirmative nod to the new proposal.

    Example

    The board provided an affirmative response to the merger inquiry, signaling their willingness to proceed with formal negotiations.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'affirmative reply' or 'affirmative action'.
  2. 2 the word 'yes' (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    a word or statement that shows agreement.

    a word or statement of agreement or assent; the 'yes' side of a debate or vote.

    Example

    She answered in the affirmative when asked if she wanted the job.

    Example

    When the witness answered in the affirmative, the prosecutor moved quickly to the next line of questioning.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the phrase 'in the affirmative'.
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  1. 3 radio communication (interj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Formal Sport

    a formal word for 'yes' used in radio or military talk.

    a standard response in radio-telephony and military communications used to confirm a message or answer 'yes'.

    Example

    Affirmative, we have reached the target location.

    Example

    The pilot responded with a crisp 'affirmative' before adjusting the aircraft's heading as instructed by air traffic control.

    Teacher's tip

    In everyday conversation, using this sounds overly robotic or military; stick to 'yes' or 'sure' unless you are in a formal radio context.
Origin

From Middle English affirmative, affirmatyve, from Old French affirmatif, from Latin affirmativus, from affirmare (“to assert”).

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