English Reference
adjective

conductive

adj.
US /kənˈdəktɪv/ UK /kəndˈʌktɪv/ con·duc·tive

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Science

    allowing electricity or heat to pass through easily.

    having the property of transmitting electricity or heat; capable of acting as a conductor.

    Simple

    Copper is a highly conductive metal, which is why it is used for wiring.

    In context

    The researchers tested several new polymers to determine which was the most conductive under extreme temperature fluctuations.

    Usage

    Usually follows a linking verb like 'is' or 'becomes', or sits directly before the noun it describes.

    Pitfall
    The environment was conductive to learning. The environment was conducive to learning.

    Do not confuse 'conductive' (electricity/heat) with 'conducive' (making something likely to happen).

    transmissive
    insulatingnonconductive

By adding conductive yarn, they turned these shape-shifting fabrics into soft electronic switches capable of controlling lights, counting steps, and responding to movement.

ScienceDaily· 4 Sept 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated