The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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negative

adjective

/ˈnɛg ə tɪv/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of negative

Unfavorable, pessimistic, or expressing dissent or disagreement.
"The critic gave a negative review of the movie, highlighting its flaws."

Detailed meaning of negative

In this sense, it denotes a critical or opposing viewpoint, emphasizing the aspects that are undesirable or contrary to expectations. Secondly, "negative" can refer to the absence or lack of something, indicating a negation or denial. For example, a negative test result indicates the absence of a particular condition or substance. Additionally, "negative" can pertain to the opposite or reverse of a given quality or attribute. In the field of photography, a negative refers to an image where light and dark tones are reversed, serving as the basis for producing prints. Furthermore, "negative" can describe an electrical charge or polarity that is opposite to positive. Finally, "negative" can characterize a person's temperament or attitude as being pessimistic, cynical, or displaying a lack of enthusiasm. Overall, the term "negative" encompasses notions of opposition, absence, reversal, polarity, and unfavorable perspectives.

Example sentences containing negative

1. She had a negative outlook on life and always expected the worst.
2. The negative effects of pollution on the environment are a growing concern.
3. The team received negative feedback on their performance during the presentation.
4. He had a negative reaction to the medication, experiencing side effects.
5. The test results came back negative, indicating the absence of the virus.
6. The negative charges repelled each other, causing the particles to disperse.

History and etymology of negative

The adjective 'negative' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'negativus,' which is derived from 'negare,' meaning 'to deny' or 'to say no.' In its early usage, 'negative' carried the literal sense of negation or denial. Over time, it evolved to encompass the broader connotations of expressing dissent, disagreement, or unfavorable views. When something is described as 'negative,' it often implies a pessimistic or unfavorable perspective, emphasizing the denial or rejection of a particular idea, statement, or situation. Thus, 'negative' has preserved its connection to its Latin origins while expanding its meaning to convey various forms of disagreement or pessimism.

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Further usage examples of negative

1. She received negative comments on her social media post, prompting her to reconsider her views.
2. The candidate's campaign took a negative turn when scandals emerged.
3. The weather forecast gave a negative prediction of heavy rain and thunderstorms.
4. He always saw the negative side of things and rarely expressed optimism.
5. The negative consequences of their actions became evident over time.
6. Her negative attitude is affecting the team's morale.
7. We should address the negative aspects of this plan.
8. He has a knack for turning every situation negative.
9. The feedback was mostly negative, but there's hope.
10. Avoid dwelling on the negative aspects of the situation.
11. The negative comments overshadowed the positive ones.
12. His constant negativity is bringing everyone down.
13. She gave a negative response to the proposal.
14. Let's focus on finding solutions, not dwelling on negatives.
15. Don't let negative thoughts hinder your progress.
16. Negative influences can derail your success.
17. A negative outlook can limit your opportunities.
18. They expressed their negative opinions loudly.
19. Negative feedback can be valuable for improvement.
20. He tends to interpret things in a negative light.
21. Negative emotions can impact your overall well-being.
22. Her negative demeanor is creating a hostile environment.
23. It's important to address negative feelings constructively.
24. We need to counteract the negative effects of stress.
25. Negatives aside, there are some positive aspects to consider.