ENGLISH
REFERENCE

constructive

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //kənˈstɹəktɪv// UK //kənstɹˈʌktɪv// con·struc·tive

adj. useful and intended to help or improve something. You use this to describe feedback or ideas that help you get better rather than just pointing out mistakes.

adj. serving a useful purpose or helping to improve a situation. Often describes criticism or suggestions that are practical and positive in nature.


SIMPLE

She gave me some constructive advice on my essay.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager encouraged the team to offer constructive criticism during the meeting to help improve the project workflow.

COMPLEX

While the initial feedback was harsh, the lead architect eventually provided constructive suggestions that allowed the team to resolve the structural issues without exceeding the budget.

Antonyms
Origin

From Latin cōnstrūctīvus. By surface analysis, construct + -ive.

Usage

Commonly modifies nouns like 'criticism', 'feedback', 'dialogue', or 'role'.

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