constructive

[kuhn-struhk-tiv]

adjective

1. helping to improve; promoting further development or advancement (destructive ).

   constructive criticism.

   Synonyms: useful, handy, helpful, productive

2. of, relating to, or of the nature of construction; structural.

3. deduced by inference or interpretation; inferential.

   constructive permission.

4. Law.,  denoting an act or condition not directly expressed but inferred from other acts or conditions.

constructive

/ kənˈstrʌktɪv /

adjective

1. serving to build or improve; positive

   constructive criticism

2. law deduced by inference or construction; not expressed but inferred

3. law having a deemed legal effect

   constructive notice

4. another word for structural

Other Word Forms

• constructiveness noun
• constructively adverb
• nonconstructive adjective
• nonconstructively adverb
• nonconstructiveness noun
• quasi-constructive adjective
• quasi-constructively adverb
• unconstructive adjective
• unconstructively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of constructive¹

1670–80; < Medieval Latin constrūctīvus, equivalent to Latin constrūct(us) ( construct ) + īvus -ive

Example Sentences

Politicians in north Belfast have said they are making "constructive" progress in their efforts to find a solution to racist and sectarian attacks in the area.

From BBC

The press coverage of the meeting in Alaska said there were lots of “constructive” conversations.

From Los Angeles Times

He praised the "constructive atmosphere of mutual respect" of the "neighbourly" talks, and then launching into a condensed history of Alaska's past as a Russian territory.

From BBC

Thames said it was focused on making itself financially viable and that "constructive discussions with our many stakeholders continue".

From BBC

Talks last month ended with both sides calling the discussions "constructive".

From BBC

Related Words

• effective 
• positive 
• practical 
• productive 
• useful 
• valuable