If you are positiveabout things, you are hopeful and confident, and think of the good aspects of a situation rather than the bad ones.
Be positive about your future and get on with living a normal life. [+ about]
He became much more positive and was soon back in full-time employment.
...a positive frame of mind.
Synonyms: optimistic, confident, hopeful, upbeat [informal] More Synonyms of positive
positivelyadverb [ADVERB after verb]
You really must try to start thinking positively.
Synonyms: really, completely, simply, plain [informal] More Synonyms of positive
2. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]
A positive fact, situation, or experience is pleasant and helpful to you in some way.
The parting from his sister had a positive effect on John.
Working abroad should be an exciting and positive experience for all concerned.
Synonyms: beneficial, effective, useful, practical More Synonyms of positive
The positive in a situation is the good and pleasant aspects of it.
Work on the positive, creating beautiful, loving and fulfilling relationships.
3. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]
If you make a positive decision or take positive action, you do something definite in order to deal with a task or problem.
There are positive changes that should be implemented in the rearing of animals.
Having a good diet gives me a sense that I'm doing something positive and that I'min control.
4. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]
A positive response to something indicates agreement, approval, or encouragement.
Police have had a positive response to appeals for information from motorists travellingon the M40.
positivelyadverb [ADVERB after verb]
He responded positively and accepted the fee of £1000 I had offered.
Synonyms: really, completely, simply, plain [informal] More Synonyms of positive
5. adjective [verb-link ADJECTIVE]
If you are positive about something, you are completely sure about it.
I'm as positive as I can be about it.
'She's never late. You sure she said eight?'—'Positive.'
6. adjective [ADJECTIVE noun]
Positive evidence gives definite proof of the truth or identity of something.
There was no positive evidence that any birth defects had arisen as a result of VitaminA intake.
positivelyadverb [ADVERB with verb]
The body has been positively identified as his.
Synonyms: really, completely, simply, plain [informal] More Synonyms of positive
7. adjective
If a medical or scientific test is positive, it shows that something has happened or is present.
If the test is positive, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed.
He was stripped of his gold medal after testing positive for steroids.
8. HIV positive
9. adjective [ADJECTIVE noun]
You can use positive to emphasize a noun.
[old-fashioned, emphasis]
Good day to you, Bernard! It's a positive delight to see you.
He was in a positive fury.
The man was being a positive embarrassment.
Synonyms: absolute, complete, perfect, right [British, informal] More Synonyms of positive
10. See also positively
11. adjective [ADJECTIVE noun]
A positive number is greater than zero.
It's really a simple numbers game with negative and positive numbers.
12. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]
If something has a positive electrical charge, it has the same charge as a proton and the opposite charge toan electron.
[technical]
positivelyadverb [ADVERB adjective]
...positively charged ions.
Synonyms: really, completely, simply, plain [informal] More Synonyms of positive
13. proof positive
More Synonyms of positive
English Easy Learning GrammarWord order in sentencesThe order of words in an English sentence is very important. A change in word orderoften results in a change of meaning. Many other languages use inflection, ... Read more
positive in British English
(ˈpɒzɪtɪv)
adjective
1.
characterized by or expressing certainty or affirmation
a positive answer
2.
composed of or possessing actual or specific qualities; real
a positive benefit
3.
tending to emphasize what is good or laudable; constructive
he takes a very positive attitude when correcting pupils' mistakes
4.
tending towards progress or improvement; moving in a beneficial direction
5. philosophy
a.
constructive rather than sceptical
b.
(of a concept) denoting the presence rather than the absence of some property
6.
independent of circumstances; absolute or unqualified
7. (prenominal) informal
(intensifier)
a positive delight
8. mathematics
a.
having a value greater than zero
a positive number
b.
designating, consisting of, or graduated in one or more quantities greater than zero
positive direction
9. mathematics
a.
measured in a direction opposite to that regarded as negative
b.
having the same magnitude as but opposite sense to an equivalent negative quantity
10. grammar
denoting the usual form of an adjective as opposed to its comparative or superlative form
11. biology
indicating movement or growth towards a particular stimulus
12. physics
a.
(of an electric charge) having an opposite polarity to the charge of an electron and the same polarity as the charge of a proton
b.
(of a body, system, ion, etc) having a positive electric charge; having a deficiency of electrons
a positive ion
c.
(of a point in an electric circuit) having a higher electric potential than some other point with an assigned zero potential
13. short for electropositive
14.
(of a lens) capable of causing convergence of a parallel beam of light
15. medicine
(of the results of an examination or test) indicating the existence or presence ofa suspected disorder or pathogenic organism
16. medicine
(of the effect of a drug or therapeutic regimen) beneficial or satisfactory
17. short for Rh positive
18.
(of a machine part) having precise motion with no hysteresis or backlash
19. mainly US
(of a government) directly involved in activities beyond the minimum maintenance of law and order, such as social welfare or the organization of scientific research
20. economics
of or denoting an analysis that is free of ethical, political, or value judgments
21. astrology
of, relating to, or governed by the group of signs of the zodiac that belong to the air and fire classifications, which are associated with a self-expressive spontaneous nature
noun
22.
something that is positive
23. mathematics
a quantity greater than zero
24. photography
a print or slide showing a photographic image whose colours or tones correspond to those of the original subject
25. grammar
the positive degree of an adjective or adverb
26.
a positive object, such as a terminal or plate in a voltaic cell
27. music
a. Also called: positive organ
a medieval nonportable organ with one manual and no pedals
Compare portative organ
b. a variant spelling of positif
Compare negative
Derived forms
positiveness (ˈpositiveness) or positivity (ˌposiˈtivity)
noun
Word origin
C13: from Late Latin positīvus positive, agreed on an arbitrary basis, from pōnere to place
positive in American English
(ˈpɑzətɪv)
adjective
1.
formally or arbitrarily set; conventional; artificial
a positive law
2.
definitely set; explicitly laid down; admitting of no question or modification; express; precise; specific
positive instructions
3.
a.
having the mind set or settled; confident; assured
a positive person
b.
overconfident or dogmatic
4.
showing resolution or agreement; affirmative; certain
a positive answer
5.
tending in the direction regarded as that of increase, progress, etc.
clockwise motion is positive
6.
making a definite contribution; constructive
positive criticism
7.
unrelated to anything else; independent of circumstances; absolute; unqualified
8.
that has, or is considered as having, real existence in itself, not just in the absenceof other attributes
a positive good
9.
based, or asserted as based, on reality or facts
positive proof
10.
concerned only with real things and experience; empirical; practical
11. Informal
complete; absolute; out-and-out
a positive fool
12. Biology
directed toward the source of a stimulus
positive tropism
13. US, Electricity
a.
of, generating, or charged with positive electricity
b.
having a deficiency of electrons
14. Grammar
a.
of an adjective or adverb in its simple, uninflected or unmodified form or degree; neither comparative nor superlative
b.
of this degree
15. Ancient Mathematics
designating a quantity greater than zero, or one to be added; plus
16. Medicine
having or demonstrating, showing, or proving the presence or existence of a condition, an infection, symptoms, bacteria, etc.
a patient who is positive for TB, a positive TB test
17. Photography
with the light and shade corresponding to those of the subject
noun
18.
something positive, as a degree, quality, condition, etc.
; specif.,
a. Electricity
a terminal, electrode, or plate that attracts a flow of electrons from a negative terminal, electrode, or plate, as in a storage battery or dry cell
b. Grammar
the positive degree; also, a word or form in this degree
c. Ancient Mathematics
a quantity greater than zero, or one to be added; plus quantity
d. Photography
a photographic print, or a film for use in a projector, on which light and shadow correspond to what they were in the subject
SIMILAR WORDS: sure
Derived forms
positively (ˈpositively)
adverb
positiveness (ˈpositiveness)
noun
Word origin
ME positif < OFr < L positivus < positus: see position
Examples of 'positive' in a sentence
positive
These examples have been automatically selected and may contain sensitive content.Read more…
You need to be positive about the future and the pleasures you can share.
The Sun (2016)
This should have a positive effect on all kinds of relationships.
The Sun (2016)
This means having the freedom to be themselves and having a positive experience at school.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
You can easily set up a check for positive or negative social media sentiment.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
You have a positive attitude that makes you good company.
The Sun (2017)
Something positive has come out of it at last.
The Sun (2016)
How has she coped while outwardly remaining so positive?
The Sun (2016)
Your ability to focus on the positive aspects of family life makes you such an asset and brings an agreement much faster than anyone else expects.
The Sun (2016)
The best way to change attitudes across generations is to reach out to young minds which are more easily engaged and open to positiveimages of diversity.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
I'm not positive a good outcome is going to come next week.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
There was enough there to be hugely positive about.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
At work and home your positive attitude gets good results.
The Sun (2014)
This means that each new task is positive rather than negative.
Atkinson, Jacqueline M Coping with Stress at Work (1988)
Social media should be used for promoting positive body images.
The Sun (2016)
We publish the results of all our studies regardless of whether they are positive or negative.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
We will make church a positive experience for outsiders.
Christianity Today (2000)
Try swapping any negative thoughts for positive ones.
The Sun (2012)
The day ended on a really positive note.
The Sun (2011)
We remain very positive that his outlook is bright.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
But this position ignores the potential for any positive gains.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
The way to do so is to invest in assets having positive net present values.
Charles A. D'Ambrosio & Stewart D. Hodges & Richard Brealey & Stewart Myers Principles of Corporate Finance (1991)
One horse has tested positive for equine infectious anaemia.
The Sun (2012)
We have changed the situation in a positive way.
The Sun (2011)
You just have to keep trying to think positive.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
What happened to the joy of building something positive?
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
There is so much to be positive about.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
Many family members have had the same positive experience with low carbs.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
The studies suggested a positive effect when one probably did not exist.
The Sun (2016)
News on the earnings front remains positive.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
But there is also the potential for positive surprises.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
As long as they are used as a positive force for good rather than seen as a negative.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
The main point about daydreaming is that you are feeding your mind positive images which gives your immune system a regular boost.
Whiteside, Dr Mike Banish Headaches -how to obtain fast, drug-free relief from headache (1990)
Quotations
positive: mistaken at the top of one's voiceAmbrose BierceThe Devil's Dictionary
You've got to ac-cent-tchu-ate the positive Elim-my-nate the negative Latch on to the affirmative Don't mess with Mister In-BetweenJohnny MercerAc-cent-tchu-ate the Positive
In other languages
positive
British English: positive /ˈpɒzɪtɪv/ ADJECTIVE
If you are positive, you are hopeful and confident, and think of the good aspects of a situation rather than the bad ones.
Be positive about your future.
American English: positive
Arabic: إِيجَابِيّ
Brazilian Portuguese: positivo
Chinese: 肯定的
Croatian: pozitivan
Czech: pozitivní
Danish: positiv
Dutch: positief
European Spanish: positivo
Finnish: positiivinen
French: positif
German: positiv
Greek: θετικός
Italian: positivo
Japanese: 確信している
Korean: 적극적인
Norwegian: positiv
Polish: pozytywny
European Portuguese: positivo
Romanian: optimist
Russian: позитивный
Latin American Spanish: positivo
Swedish: positiv
Thai: ซึ่งมองในแง่ดี
Turkish: olumlu
Ukrainian: позитивний
Vietnamese: chắc chắn
British English: positive NOUN
The positive in a situation is the good and pleasant aspects of it.
He prefers to focus on the positive.
American English: positive
Brazilian Portuguese: lado positivo
Chinese: 积极面
European Spanish: lo positivo
French: points positifs
German: Positive
Italian: aspetti positivi
Japanese: よい面
Korean: 긍정적 측면
European Portuguese: lado positivo
Latin American Spanish: lo positivo
Translate your text for free
All related terms of 'positive'
Rh positive
blood containing the Rh factor
Gram-positive
designating bacteria that retain the violet stain in Gram's method
HIV-positive
If someone is HIV positive , they are infected with the HIV virus, and may develop AIDS . If someone is HIV negative , they are not infected with the virus.
positive ion
Physics & Chemistry See under ion (sense 1 )
positive law
customary law or law enacted by governmental authority (as distinguished from natural law )
positive mood
Your mood is the way you are feeling at a particular time. If you are in a good mood , you feel cheerful . If you are in a bad mood , you feel angry and impatient .
positive news
News is information about a recently changed situation or a recent event.
positive side
A particular side of something such as a situation or someone's character is one aspect of it.
positive sign
the sign (+) used to indicate a positive quantity
positive step
A step is one of a series of actions that you take in order to achieve something.
positive view
Your view of a particular subject is the way that you understand and think about it.
positive way
If you refer to a way of doing something, you are referring to how you can do it, for example the action you can take or the method you can use to achieve it.
false positive
A false positive is a mistaken result of a scientific test. For example , if the result of a pregnancy test is a false positive, it indicates that a woman is pregnant when she is not.
positive change
If there is a change in something, it becomes different.
positive light
If something is presented in a particular light , it is presented so that you think about it in a particular way or so that it appears to be of a particular nature .
positive manner
The manner in which you do something is the way that you do it.
positive organ
a medieval non-portable organ with one manual and no pedals
positive result
A result is the situation that exists at the end of a contest .
positive review
A review is a report in the media in which someone gives their opinion of something such as a new book or film.
positive thing
You can use thing to refer to any object, feature , or event when you cannot, need not, or do not want to refer to it more precisely .
positive trend
A trend is a change or development towards something new or different.
proof positive
To be proof positive of a particular fact or quality means to be evidence that it is true or that it exists .
rhesus positive
relating to blood containing Rhesus antigen D
positive emotions
An emotion is a feeling such as happiness, love, fear , anger , or hatred , which can be caused by the situation that you are in or the people you are with.
positive feedback
Positive feedback is feedback where the returning signal improves the effect of the input signal.
positive feeling
A feeling is an emotion , such as anger or happiness.
positive influence
To have an influence on people or situations means to affect what they do or what happens .
positive message
The message that someone is trying to communicate , for example in a book or play, is the idea or point that they are trying to communicate.
positive outcome
The outcome of an activity, process, or situation is the situation that exists at the end of it.
positive polarity
the grammatical characteristic of a word or phrase, such as delicious or rather, that may normally only be used in a semantically or syntactically positive or affirmative context
positive reaction
Your reaction to something that has happened or something that you have experienced is what you feel, say , or do because of it.
positive response
Your response to an event or to something that is said is your reply or reaction to it.
positive sentiment
A sentiment that people have is an attitude which is based on their thoughts and feelings.
positive thinking
an optimistic attitude
positive vetting
the checking of a person's background , political affiliation, etc, to assess his or her suitability for a position that may involve national security
positive contribution
If you make a contribution to something, you do something to help make it successful or to produce it.
positive electricity
the kind of electricity possessed by an object (as a glass rod after it has been rubbed with a piece of silk ) having a deficiency of electrons
positive prescription
the uninterrupted possession of property over a stated period of time, after which a right or title is acquired
positive reinforcement
The reinforcement of something is the process of making it stronger.
positive discrimination
Positive discrimination means making sure that people such as women, members of smaller racial groups, and people with disabilities get a fair share of the opportunities available .
positive bending moment
a bending moment that produces concave bending at the middle of a simple supported beam
net positive suction head
The net positive suction head is a measure of a pump's performance .
poz
positive
pozz
positive
affirmative action
Affirmative action is the policy of making sure that people such as women, members of smaller racial groups, and people with disabilities get a fair share of the opportunities available .
sagging moment
a bending moment that produces concave bending at the middle of a simple supported beam
body positivity
Body positivity is the idea that people should feel happy with and proud of their body, whatever shape or size it is.
影片以大团(團)圆(圓)的结(結)局告终(終) yǐngpiàn yǐ dà tuányuán de jiéjú gàozhōng
to be positive (about sth)
确(確)信(某事) quèxìn (mǒushì)
1 (adjective)
Definition
tending to emphasize what is good
a positive frame of mind
Synonyms
optimistic
Michael was in a jovial and optimistic mood.
confident
hopeful
Surgeons were hopeful of saving her sight.
upbeat (informal)
Neil's colleagues say he was actually in a joking, upbeat mood.
buoyant
She was in a buoyant mood.
sanguine
He's remarkably sanguine about the problems involved.
forward-looking
Opposites
negative
2 (adjective)
Definition
tending towards progress or improvement
Working abroad should be a positive experience.
Synonyms
beneficial
vitamins which are beneficial to health
effective
Antibiotics are effective against this organism.
useful
The police gained useful information about the organisation.
practical
We do not yet have any practical way to prevent cancer.
helpful
The catalogue includes helpful information.
progressive
productive
a productive relationship
worthwhile
The study did not produce any worthwhile results.
constructive
Both men described the talks as frank, friendly and constructive.
pragmatic
a pragmatic approach to the problems faced by Latin America
efficacious
The nasal spray was new on the market and highly efficacious.
Opposites
useless
,
harmful
,
detrimental
,
impractical
,
unhelpful
3 (adjective)
There has been a positive response to the peace efforts.
Synonyms
favourable
He made favourable comments about her work.
encouraging
enthusiastic
good
approving
reassuring
supportive
They were always supportive of each other.
constructive
affirmative
He was eager for an affirmative answer.
corroborative
Opposites
unfavourable
4 (adjective)
Definition
definite or certain
I'm positive she said she'd be here.
Synonyms
certain
She's absolutely certain she's going to make it as a singer.
sure
She was no longer sure what she thought about the situation.
convinced
confident
I am confident that everything will come out right in time.
satisfied
People must be satisfied that the treatment is safe.
assured
Our victory is assured; nothing can stop us.
free from doubt
Opposites
uncertain
,
unsure
,
unconvinced
,
not confident
,
unassured
5 (adjective)
Definition
expressing certainty
There was no positive evidence.
Synonyms
definite
It's too soon to give a definite answer.
real
clear
It is important to be clear on what the author is saying here.
firm
certain
direct
We deny there is any direct connection between the two cases.
express
I was warned not to leave my post without express orders.
actual
She had written some notes, but she hadn't started the actual work.
absolute
He brought the absolute proof that we needed.
concrete
He had no concrete evidence.
decisive
a decisive victory in the elections
explicit
He left explicit instructions on how to set the alarm.
affirmative
clear-cut
She won a clear-cut victory in yesterday's election.
unmistakable
the unmistakable aroma of freshly ground coffee
conclusive
There is no conclusive evidence that a murder took place.
unequivocal
Richardson's unequivocal commitment to fair play
indisputable
It is indisputable that the animals are harbouring this illness.
categorical
He issued a categorical denial of all the charges.
incontrovertible
incontrovertible evidence that the government is violating the agreement
nailed-on (slang)
Opposites
uncertain
,
doubtful
,
indefinite
,
inconclusive
,
indecisive
,
contestable
,
disputable
6 (adjective)
Definition
complete
(informal)
He was in a positive fury.
Synonyms
absolute
A sick person needs to have absolute trust in a doctor.
complete
He made me look like a complete idiot.
perfect
She behaved like a perfect fool.
right (British, informal)
He gave them a right telling off.
real
You must think I'm a real idiot.
total
The car was in a total mess.
I mean I'm not a total idiot.
rank
He accused his rival of rank hypocrisy.
sheer
acts of sheer desperation
utter
A look of utter confusion swept across his handsome face.
thorough
I was a thorough little academic snob.
downright
downright bad manners
consummate
He was a consummate liar and exaggerator.
veritable
a veritable feast of entertainment
unqualified
The event was an unqualified success.
out-and-out
You're an out-and-out liar.
unmitigated
A senior police officer had called him an unmitigated liar.
thoroughgoing
unalloyed
7 (adjective)
Definition
tending towards progress or improvement
He said that the agreement could be a positive sign.
Synonyms
good
Biotechnology should be good news for developing countries.
promising
a new and promising stage in the negotiations
pleasing
encouraging
The results have not been very encouraging.
welcome
a welcome change from the usual routine
favourable
favourable weather conditions
heartening
auspicious
His career had an auspicious start.
propitious
the most propitious moment to launch the campaign
8 (adjective)
Synonyms
assertive
an assertive style of management
decided
a man of very decided opinions
firm
stubborn
forceful
He was a man of forceful character.
emphatic
His response was immediate and emphatic.
resolute
a decisive and resolute international leader
dogmatic
His dogmatic style deflects opposition.
opinionated
He's an opinionated man who always thinks he knows best.
peremptory
He treated his colleagues in a peremptory manner.
cocksure
Opposites
retiring
,
open-minded
,
timid
,
receptive
,
unobtrusive
,
diffident
, unassertive
Quotations
positive: mistaken at the top of one's voice [Ambrose Bierce – The Devil's Dictionary]You've got to ac-cent-tchu-ate the positive Elim-my-nate the negative Latch on to the affirmative Don't mess with Mister In-Between [Johnny Mercer – Ac-cent-tchu-ate the Positive]
Additional synonyms
in the sense of actual
She had written some notes, but she hadn't started the actual work.
Synonyms
real,
substantial (formal),
concrete,
definite,
tangible
in the sense of affirmative
Definition
indicating agreement
He was eager for an affirmative answer.
Synonyms
agreeing,
confirming,
positive,
approving,
consenting,
favourable,
concurring,
assenting,
corroborative
in the sense of assured
Definition
certain to happen
Our victory is assured; nothing can stop us.
Synonyms
certain,
sure,
ensured,
confirmed,
settled,
guaranteed,
fixed,
secure,
sealed,
clinched,
made certain,
sound,
in the bag (slang),
dependable,
beyond doubt,
irrefutable,
unquestionable,
indubitable,
nailed-on (slang)
Synonyms of 'positive'
positive
Explore 'positive' in the dictionary
Additional synonyms
in the sense of auspicious
Definition
showing the signs of future success
His career had an auspicious start.
Synonyms
favourable,
timely,
happy,
promising,
encouraging,
bright,
lucky,
hopeful,
fortunate,
prosperous,
rosy,
opportune (formal),
propitious,
felicitous
in the sense of buoyant
Definition
cheerful or resilient
She was in a buoyant mood.
Synonyms
cheerful,
happy,
bright,
lively,
sunny,
animated,
upbeat (informal),
joyful,
carefree,
bouncy,
breezy,
genial,
jaunty,
chirpy (informal),
sparky,
vivacious,
debonair,
blithe,
full of beans (informal),
peppy (informal),
light-hearted
in the sense of categorical
Definition
absolutely clear and certain
He issued a categorical denial of all the charges.
Synonyms
absolute,
direct,
express,
positive,
explicit,
unconditional,
emphatic,
downright,
unequivocal,
unqualified,
unambiguous,
unreserved
in the sense of clear
Definition
certain in the mind
It is important to be clear on what the author is saying here.
Synonyms
certain,
sure,
convinced,
positive,
satisfied,
resolved,
explicit,
definite,
decided
in the sense of clear-cut
Definition
easy to distinguish or understand
She won a clear-cut victory in yesterday's election.
Synonyms
straightforward,
specific,
plain,
precise,
black-and-white,
explicit,
definite,
unequivocal,
unambiguous,
cut-and-dried (informal)
in the sense of complete
Definition
perfect in quality or kind
He made me look like a complete idiot.
Synonyms
total,
perfect,
absolute,
utter,
outright,
thorough,
consummate,
out-and-out,
unmitigated,
dyed-in-the-wool,
thoroughgoing,
deep-dyed
in the sense of conclusive
Definition
putting an end to doubt
There is no conclusive evidence that a murder took place.
Synonyms
decisive,
final,
convincing,
clinching,
definite,
definitive,
irrefutable,
unanswerable,
unarguable,
ultimate
in the sense of concrete
Definition
specific as opposed to general
He had no concrete evidence.
Synonyms
specific,
precise,
explicit,
definite,
clear-cut,
unequivocal,
unambiguous
in the sense of confident
Definition
having or showing certainty
I am confident that everything will come out right in time.
Synonyms
certain,
sure,
convinced,
positive,
secure,
satisfied,
counting on
in the sense of constructive
Definition
useful and helpful
Both men described the talks as frank, friendly and constructive.
Synonyms
helpful,
positive,
useful,
practical,
valuable,
productive
Additional synonyms
in the sense of consummate
Definition
complete or extreme
He was a consummate liar and exaggerator.
Synonyms
complete,
total,
supreme,
extreme,
ultimate,
absolute,
utter,
conspicuous,
unqualified,
deep-dyed
in the sense of decided
Definition
strong and definite
a man of very decided opinions
Synonyms
determined,
firm,
decisive,
assertive,
emphatic,
resolute,
strong-willed,
unhesitating,
unfaltering
in the sense of decisive
Definition
having great influence on the result of something
a decisive victory in the elections
Synonyms
crucial,
significant,
critical,
final,
positive,
absolute,
influential,
definite,
definitive,
momentous,
conclusive,
fateful
in the sense of direct
We deny there is any direct connection between the two cases.
Synonyms
clear,
specific,
plain,
absolute,
distinct,
definite,
explicit,
downright,
point-blank,
unequivocal,
unqualified,
unambiguous,
categorical
in the sense of dogmatic
Definition
habitually stating one's opinions in a forceful or arrogant manner
His dogmatic style deflects opposition.
Synonyms
opinionated,
arrogant,
assertive,
arbitrary,
emphatic,
downright,
dictatorial,
imperious,
overbearing,
categorical,
magisterial,
doctrinaire,
obdurate,
peremptory
in the sense of downright
Definition
absolute
downright bad manners
Synonyms
complete,
absolute,
utter,
total,
positive (informal),
clear,
plain,
simple,
explicit,
outright,
blatant,
unequivocal,
unqualified,
out-and-out,
categorical,
undisguised,
thoroughgoing,
arrant,
deep-dyed
in the sense of effective
Definition
producing a desired result
Antibiotics are effective against this organism.
Synonyms
efficient,
successful,
useful,
active,
capable,
valuable,
helpful,
adequate,
productive,
operative,
competent,
serviceable,
efficacious,
effectual
in the sense of efficacious
Definition
producing the intended result
The nasal spray was new on the market and highly efficacious.
Synonyms
effective,
successful,
efficient,
powerful,
useful,
active,
capable,
adequate,
productive,
operative,
potent,
competent,
serviceable,
effectual
in the sense of emphatic
Definition
forceful and positive
His response was immediate and emphatic.
Synonyms
forceful,
decided,
certain,
direct,
earnest,
positive,
absolute,
distinct,
definite,
vigorous,
energetic,
unmistakable,
insistent,
unequivocal,
vehement,
forcible,
categorical
in the sense of encouraging
The results have not been very encouraging.
Synonyms
promising,
good,
bright,
comforting,
cheering,
stimulating,
reassuring,
hopeful,
satisfactory,
cheerful,
favourable,
rosy,
heartening,
auspicious,
propitious
Additional synonyms
in the sense of explicit
Definition
precisely and clearly expressed, leaving nothing to implication
He left explicit instructions on how to set the alarm.
Synonyms
clear,
obvious,
specific,
direct,
certain,
express,
plain,
absolute,
exact,
precise,
straightforward,
definite,
overt,
unequivocal,
unqualified,
unambiguous,
categorical
in the sense of express
Definition
explicitly stated
I was warned not to leave my post without express orders.
Synonyms
explicit,
clear,
direct,
precise,
pointed,
certain,
plain,
accurate,
exact,
distinct,
definite,
outright,
unambiguous,
categorical
in the sense of forceful
Definition
strong, emphatic, and confident
He was a man of forceful character.
Synonyms
dynamic,
powerful,
vigorous,
potent,
assertive
in the sense of helpful
The catalogue includes helpful information.
Synonyms
useful,
practical,
productive,
profitable,
constructive,
serviceable
in the sense of hopeful
Definition
having, inspiring, or expressing hope
Surgeons were hopeful of saving her sight.
Synonyms
optimistic,
confident,
assured,
looking forward to,
anticipating,
buoyant,
sanguine,
expectant
in the sense of incontrovertible
Definition
absolutely certain
incontrovertible evidence that the government is violating the agreement
Synonyms
indisputable,
sure,
certain,
established,
positive,
undeniable,
irrefutable,
unquestionable,
unshakable,
beyond dispute,
incontestable,
indubitable,
nailed-on (slang)
in the sense of indisputable
Definition
beyond doubt
It is indisputable that the animals are harbouring this illness.
Synonyms
undeniable,
sure,
certain,
positive,
absolute,
evident,
beyond doubt,
unassailable,
irrefutable,
unquestionable,
incontrovertible,
incontestable,
indubitable
in the sense of opinionated
Definition
holding very strong opinions which one is convinced are right
He's an opinionated man who always thinks he knows best.
Synonyms
dogmatic,
prejudiced,
biased,
arrogant,
adamant,
stubborn,
assertive,
uncompromising,
single-minded,
inflexible,
bigoted,
dictatorial,
imperious,
overbearing,
obstinate,
doctrinaire,
obdurate,
cocksure,
pig-headed,
self-assertive,
bull-headed
in the sense of out-and-out
Definition
absolute
You're an out-and-out liar.
Synonyms
absolute,
complete,
total,
perfect,
sheer,
utter,
outright,
thorough,
downright,
consummate,
unqualified,
unmitigated,
dyed-in-the-wool,
thoroughgoing,
unalloyed,
arrant,
deep-dyed
in the sense of peremptory
Definition
urgent or commanding
He treated his colleagues in a peremptory manner.
Synonyms
imperious,
arbitrary,
assertive,
authoritative,
autocratic,
dictatorial,
dogmatic,
bossy (informal),
intolerant,
domineering,
overbearing,
high-handed
Additional synonyms
in the sense of perfect
Definition
utter or absolute
She behaved like a perfect fool.
Synonyms
complete,
absolute,
sheer,
utter,
consummate,
out-and-out,
unadulterated,
unmitigated,
unalloyed
in the sense of practical
We do not yet have any practical way to prevent cancer.
Synonyms
feasible,
possible,
sound,
viable,
constructive,
workable,
practicable,
doable
in the sense of pragmatic
Definition
concerned with practical consequences rather than theory
a pragmatic approach to the problems faced by Latin America
Synonyms
practical,
efficient,
sensible,
realistic,
down-to-earth,
matter-of-fact,
utilitarian,
businesslike,
hard-headed
in the sense of productive
Definition
yielding favourable results
a productive relationship
Synonyms
useful,
rewarding,
valuable,
profitable,
effective,
worthwhile,
beneficial,
constructive,
gratifying,
fruitful,
advantageous,
win-win,
gainful
in the sense of promising
Definition
likely to succeed or turn out well
a new and promising stage in the negotiations
Synonyms
encouraging,
likely,
bright,
reassuring,
hopeful,
favourable,
rosy,
auspicious,
propitious,
full of promise
in the sense of propitious
Definition
likely to prove favourable
the most propitious moment to launch the campaign
Synonyms
favourable,
timely,
promising,
encouraging,
bright,
lucky,
fortunate,
prosperous,
rosy,
advantageous,
auspicious,
opportune (formal),
full of promise
in the sense of rank
He accused his rival of rank hypocrisy.
Synonyms
absolute,
complete,
total,
gross,
sheer,
excessive,
utter,
glaring,
thorough,
extravagant,
rampant,
blatant,
downright,
flagrant,
egregious,
unmitigated,
undisguised,
arrant
in the sense of real
You must think I'm a real idiot.
Synonyms
complete,
right,
total,
perfect,
positive (informal),
absolute,
utter,
thorough,
veritable,
out-and-out
in the sense of resolute
Definition
firm in purpose or belief
a decisive and resolute international leader
Synonyms
determined,
set,
firm,
dogged,
fixed,
constant,
bold,
relentless,
stubborn,
stalwart,
staunch,
persevering,
inflexible,
purposeful,
tenacious,
undaunted,
strong-willed,
steadfast,
obstinate,
unwavering,
immovable,
unflinching,
unbending,
unshakable,
unshaken
in the sense of right
He gave them a right telling off.
Synonyms
complete,
real,
pure,
absolute,
utter,
outright,
thorough,
out-and-out,
thoroughgoing
Additional synonyms
in the sense of sanguine
Definition
cheerful and confident
He's remarkably sanguine about the problems involved.
Synonyms
cheerful,
confident,
optimistic,
assured,
hopeful,
buoyant,
in good heart
in the sense of satisfied
People must be satisfied that the treatment is safe.
Synonyms
sure,
smug,
certain,
convinced,
positive,
free from doubt,
easy in your mind,
at ease
in the sense of sheer
Definition
absolute
acts of sheer desperation
Synonyms
total,
complete,
absolute,
utter,
rank,
pure,
downright (derogatory),
unqualified,
out-and-out,
unadulterated,
unmitigated,
thoroughgoing,
unalloyed,
arrant (derogatory)
in the sense of supportive
They were always supportive of each other.
Synonyms
helpful,
caring,
encouraging,
understanding,
reassuring,
sympathetic
in the sense of sure
Definition
free from doubt or uncertainty (in regard to a belief)
She was no longer sure what she thought about the situation.
Synonyms
certain,
positive,
clear,
decided,
convinced,
persuaded,
confident,
satisfied,
assured,
definite,
free from doubt
in the sense of thorough
Definition
great in extent or degree
I was a thorough little academic snob.
Synonyms
complete,
total,
absolute,
utter,
perfect,
entire,
pure,
sheer,
outright,
downright (derogatory),
unqualified,
out-and-out,
unmitigated,
arrant (derogatory),
deep-dyed (derogatory)
in the sense of total
Definition
complete
The car was in a total mess.I mean I'm not a total idiot.
Synonyms
complete,
absolute,
utter,
whole,
perfect,
entire,
sheer,
outright,
all-out,
thorough,
unconditional,
downright (derogatory),
undisputed,
consummate,
unqualified,
out-and-out,
undivided,
overarching,
unmitigated,
thoroughgoing,
arrant (derogatory),
deep-dyed (derogatory)
in the sense of unequivocal
Definition
completely clear in meaning
Richardson's unequivocal commitment to fair play
Synonyms
clear,
absolute,
definite,
certain,
direct,
straight,
positive,
plain,
evident,
black-and-white,
decisive,
explicit,
manifest,
clear-cut,
unmistakable,
unambiguous,
cut-and-dried (informal),
incontrovertible,
indubitable,
uncontestable,
nailed-on (slang)
in the sense of unmistakable
Definition
clear or unambiguous
the unmistakable aroma of freshly ground coffee
Synonyms
clear,
certain,
positive,
decided,
sure,
obvious,
plain,
patent,
evident,
distinct,
pronounced,
glaring,
manifest,
blatant,
conspicuous,
palpable,
unequivocal,
unambiguous,
indisputable
in the sense of unmitigated
Definition
total and complete
A senior police officer had called him an unmitigated liar.
Synonyms
complete,
absolute,
utter,
perfect,
rank,
sheer,
total,
outright,
thorough,
downright (derogatory),
consummate,
out-and-out,
thoroughgoing,
arrant (derogatory),
deep-dyed (derogatory)
Additional synonyms
in the sense of unqualified
Definition
having no conditions or limitations
The event was an unqualified success.
Synonyms
unconditional,
complete,
total,
absolute,
utter,
outright,
thorough,
downright (derogatory),
consummate,
unrestricted,
out-and-out,
categorical,
unmitigated,
unreserved,
thoroughgoing,
without reservation,
arrant (derogatory),
deep-dyed (derogatory)
in the sense of upbeat
Definition
cheerful and optimistic
Neil's colleagues say he was actually in a joking, upbeat mood.
Synonyms
cheerful,
positive,
optimistic,
promising,
encouraging,
looking up,
hopeful,
favourable,
rosy,
buoyant,
heartening,
cheery,
forward-looking
in the sense of useful
Definition
able to be used advantageously or for several purposes
The police gained useful information about the organisation.
Synonyms
helpful,
effective,
valuable,
practical,
of use,
profitable,
of service,
worthwhile,
beneficial,
of help,
fruitful,
advantageous,
all-purpose,
salutary,
general-purpose,
serviceable
in the sense of utter
Definition
total or absolute
A look of utter confusion swept across his handsome face.
Synonyms
absolute,
complete,
total,
perfect,
positive (informal),
pure,
sheer,
stark (derogatory),
outright,
all-out,
thorough,
downright (derogatory),
real,
consummate,
veritable,
unqualified,
out-and-out,
unadulterated,
unmitigated,
thoroughgoing,
arrant (derogatory),
deep-dyed (derogatory)
in the sense of veritable
Definition
rightly called
a veritable feast of entertainment
Synonyms
positive,
real,
absolute,
sheer,
indisputable,
categorical,
incontrovertible
in the sense of welcome
Definition
bringing pleasure
a welcome change from the usual routine
Synonyms
pleasing,
wanted,
accepted,
appreciated,
acceptable,
pleasant,
desirable,
refreshing,
delightful,
gratifying,
agreeable,
pleasurable,
gladly received
in the sense of worthwhile
Definition
sufficiently important, rewarding, or valuable to justify spending time or effort on it