positive Definition
- 1expressing or implying the presence of something rather than its absence
- 2confident in opinion or assertion; fully assured
- 3consisting in or characterized by the presence or possession of features or qualities rather than their absence
Using positive: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "positive" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She has a positive attitude towards life.
Example
The test result came back positive for COVID-19.
Example
He gave a positive identification of the suspect.
Example
The company has seen a positive growth in profits this year.
Example
Positive feedback from customers is always encouraging.
positive Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for positive
Antonyms for positive
Idioms Using positive
to have a medical test show that one has a particular disease or condition
Example
He tested positive for drugs and was immediately suspended from the team.
Example
Even though she lost her job, she tried to look on the positive side and saw it as an opportunity to pursue a new career.
Example
I'm positive that we can finish the project on time if we work together.
Phrases with positive
the process of encouraging or establishing a pattern of behavior by offering rewards or praise for positive actions or outcomes
Example
Positive reinforcement is often used in child-rearing to encourage good behavior.
the practice of focusing on the good aspects of a situation and expecting positive outcomes
Example
Positive thinking can help reduce stress and improve mental health.
a self-reinforcing cycle in which a change in one direction leads to further changes in the same direction
Example
A positive feedback loop can lead to exponential growth or collapse.
Origins of positive
from Old French 'positif' and Latin 'positivus', meaning 'placed, settled'
Summary: positive in Brief
The term 'positive' [ˈpɑzətɪv] refers to the presence or possession of something, often with confidence or assurance. It can describe attitudes, results, or feedback, as in 'She has a positive attitude towards life,' 'The test result came back positive for COVID-19,' and 'Positive feedback from customers is always encouraging.' Phrases like 'positive reinforcement' and idioms like 'look on the positive side' denote a focus on the good aspects of a situation. 'Positive' is formal and synonymous with 'optimistic' and 'confident.'