What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
negativity
Example
Her constant negativity was bringing down the morale of the team. [negativity: noun]
Example
I try to avoid negativity and focus on positive things. [negativity: noun]
negativism
Example
His negativism made it difficult to work with him on the project. [negativism: noun]
Example
The child's negativism was a sign of underlying emotional issues. [negativism: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Negativity is more common than negativism in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and situations. Negativism is more specialized and typically used in psychology or behavioral contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between negativity and negativism?
Both negativity and negativism are generally informal words, but negativism may be considered more technical and formal due to its association with psychology and behavioral sciences.