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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.

The governing body says it has had positive responses from players who have tried the current version.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

He added: "I'm feeling well, getting some fresh air and continue to be well fed and taken care of by the crew... just trying to focus on the positive".

From BBC • May 5, 2026

In each scenario, someone invests in a legal claim that generates a positive return, but the tax consequences are very different.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

From that angle, the earnings report included a number of positive signs, noted Evercore ISI analyst Steve Sakwa in a note Monday.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

I choose to see this as a positive development.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

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

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!