constructive

[kənˈstrʌktɪv]

constructive Definition

• 1. serving a useful and positive purpose; helpful
• 2. tending to promote or encourage development or progress

Using constructive: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "constructive" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The meeting was very constructive and we made a lot of progress.

• Example

  Criticism should always be constructive, not just negative.

• Example

  The teacher gave some constructive feedback on my essay.

• Example

  We need to find a constructive solution to this problem.

constructive Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for constructive

• positive
• beneficial
• productive
• useful
• helpful

Antonyms for constructive

• destructive
• negative
• unhelpful

Phrases with constructive

• constructive criticism

  criticism that is intended to help someone improve

  Example

  I appreciate your constructive criticism of my work.

• constructive interference

  the combination of two or more waves that results in a larger wave

  Example

  Constructive interference occurs when the crests of two waves meet and combine to form a larger wave.

• constructive dismissal

  a situation where an employer makes working conditions so difficult that an employee feels forced to resign

  Example

  He claimed constructive dismissal after his boss made unreasonable demands on him.

Origins of constructive

from Latin 'construct-' meaning 'built'

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Summary: constructive in Brief

The term 'constructive' [kənˈstrʌktɪv] refers to actions or criticism that serve a useful and positive purpose, promoting development or progress. Examples include 'The meeting was very constructive and we made a lot of progress.' and 'The teacher gave some constructive feedback on my essay.' 'Constructive' extends into phrases like 'constructive criticism,' which helps someone improve, and 'constructive interference,' which combines waves to form a larger one.