Word
informative
Phoneticsin·for·ma·tive, stress on the second syllable
US/ˌɪnˈfɔɹmətɪv/
UK/ɪnfˈɔːmətˌɪv/
Definitions
01useful or interesting
B1 · Intermediate
adj. providing useful or interesting facts that help you learn about a subject.
adj. providing significant, useful, or interesting information. This is the standard modern sense used in educational and professional contexts.
“The documentary was very informative and taught me a lot about history.”
“The keynote speaker delivered an exceptionally informative presentation, providing the board with the precise data required to finalise the merger.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
02non-binding
C1 · Advanced Law Technical · Formal
adj. describing a part of a document that gives extra information but does not set rules.
adj. referring to a section of a technical standard or legal document that provides guidance rather than mandatory requirements.
“The first chapter of the manual is informative and just explains the history of the tool.”
“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.
Synonyms
Etymology
From inform + -ative.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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