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Definitions

positive

[poz-i-tiv] / ˈpɒz ɪ tɪv /
ADJECTIVE
definite, certain
Synonyms
STRONGEST
clear conclusive confident decisive specific
STRONG
absolute affirmative cold concrete express firm perfect rank real
WEAK
actual assured categorical clear-cut cocksure complete consummate convinced decided direct downright explicit factual forceful forcible genuine hard inarguable incontestable incontrovertible indisputable indubitable irrefutable out-and-out outright sure thorough thoroughgoing unambiguous undeniable unequivocal unmistakable unmitigated
Antonyms
STRONGEST
indefinite uncertain vague
STRONG
flawed flexible imperfect imprecise yielding
WEAK
disadvantageous doubtful negative unhelpful unsure
ADJECTIVE
beneficial, helpful
Synonyms
STRONGEST
constructive effective forward-looking good practical productive reasonable useful
STRONG
affirmative progressive sound
WEAK
efficacious
Antonyms
STRONGEST
fruitless impotent impractical incapable unproductive unskilled useless worthless
WEAK
disadvantageous doubtful indefinite negative uncertain unhelpful unsure

Usage

What are other ways to say positive?

The adjective positive implies emphatic certainty, which may even become overconfidence or dogmatism. Certain suggests that there are definite reasons that have freed one from doubt. Confident emphasizes the strength of the belief or the certainty of expectation felt. Sure, the simplest and most general term, expresses mere absence of doubt.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In 2019, hundreds of children in the town of Ratodero, in Sindh province, tested positive for HIV, most of them with parents who tested negative.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

Revolution Medicines’ daraxonrasib showed positive Phase 3 results for pancreatic cancer.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 301 points on Monday, or 0.6%, and into positive territory for the year.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

Davidson’s Michael Baker said point-of-sale data in the latest week was a positive 1.3% on average, but that was a deceleration from up 3.1% the week before.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

“I’m positive we have extra clothes for you,” Glory said.

From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova

Vocabulary lists containing positive

The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 3

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The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 3

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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

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