constructive

adjective

con·​struc·​tive kən-ˈstrək-tiv 

1

: declared such by judicial construction or interpretation

constructive fraud

2

: of or relating to construction or creation

3

: promoting improvement or development

constructive criticism

constructively adverb

constructiveness noun

Synonyms

• formative
• productive

Examples of constructive in a Sentence

I tried to offer constructive criticism.

Your feedback was not very constructive.

The program helps people recently released from prison figure out how they can play a constructive role in society.

Recent Examples on the Web

Though native to these digital platforms, Gen Zers may have blind spots because the platforms are notorious for failing to convey nuances of emotional intelligence, provide constructive opportunities for conflict resolution, or practice people management. —Nate Bennett, Forbes, 23 Sep. 2024

The bad part is full of hate and fear and blame, and is as selfish and destructive as the other is altruistic and constructive. . . . —Oliver Sacks, The New Yorker, 23 Sep. 2024

Real news can be honest, hopeful, credible, constructive. —Erika Page, The Christian Science Monitor, 20 Sep. 2024

Apple’s perfectionism has been at its own expense, Zuckerberg said, arguing the company prioritizes praise above constructive feedback from users. —Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 20 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1680, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

constructive

adjective

con·​struc·​tive kən-ˈstrək-tiv 

: helping to develop or improve something

constructive suggestions

constructively adverb

constructiveness noun

Legal Definition

constructive

adjective

con·​struc·​tive kən-ˈstrək-tiv 

: created by a legal fiction: as

a

: inferred by a judicial construction or interpretation

b

: not actual but implied by operation of the law

made a constructive entry when he refused to take the opportunity for a voluntary departure

—Harvard Law Review

compare actual

constructively adverb