What does "informative" mean?

1. (useful or interesting) providing useful or interesting facts that help you learn about a subject. 2. (non-binding) describing a part of a document that gives extra information but does not set rules.

How do you use "informative"?

Often contrasted with 'normative' in technical specifications.

informative

adj.

US //ˌɪnˈfɔɹmətɪv// UK //ɪnfˈɔːmətˌɪv// in·for·ma·tive

1 useful or interesting (adj.)
B1 Intermediate

providing useful or interesting facts that help you learn about a subject.

providing significant, useful, or interesting information. This is the standard modern sense used in educational and professional contexts.

Example

The documentary was very informative and taught me a lot about history.

Example

The keynote speaker delivered an exceptionally informative presentation, providing the board with the precise data required to finalise the merger.
- uninformative
- useless
2 non-binding (adj.)
C1 Advanced Technical Formal Law

describing a part of a document that gives extra information but does not set rules.

referring to a section of a technical standard or legal document that provides guidance rather than mandatory requirements.

Example

The first chapter of the manual is informative and just explains the history of the tool.

Example

While the main body of the treaty is legally binding, the informative annexes serve only to clarify the historical context of the agreement.

Usage

Often contrasted with 'normative' in technical specifications.
- advisory
- non normative
- normative
- mandatory

Origin

From inform + -ative.