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negative

n. countable
A1 Beginner Oxford US //ˈnɛɡətɪv// UK //nˈɛɡətˌɪv// neg·a·tive General-service Slang Technical Vulgar

n. a bad or harmful part of a situation. It can also mean a word like 'no' or 'not' that shows you disagree or are refusing something.

n. a word, phrase, or statement that expresses denial, disagreement, or refusal. Also refers to a disadvantageous or harmful feature of a situation.


SIMPLE

The plan has many positives but one major negative.

CONTEXTUAL

When I asked if they wanted to join us, the answer was a firm negative.

COMPLEX

While the salary increase is welcome, the negative of a longer commute must be weighed against the financial gain before I sign the contract.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Middle English negative, negatif, from Old French negatif, from Latin negātīvus (“that denies, negative”), from negāre (“to deny”); see negate.

Usage

Often used in the plural ('negatives') when discussing pros and cons.

Pitfall

He gave me a negative answer of my request.He gave me a negative answer to my request.When used as a noun or adjective regarding a response, it typically takes the preposition 'to' rather than 'of'.

Idioms1 entry

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