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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.

City have the momentum, but their positive display at the Etihad will give Arsenal belief.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

Warning lights are flashing to suggest Gadd should brace for impact as his latest story is told, as are early positive reviews.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

American will need to pull out a big positive surprise to shift the mood around the airline sector.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

Companies are “keeping up appearances,” by hiring less and trying to sell a positive story, he suspects.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 23, 2026

“Can you be positive of your position?” the Boss asked Worsley.

From "Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World" by Jennifer Armstrong

Vocabulary lists containing positive

The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 3

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The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 3

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!