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 of constructive

• creative
• 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

Momentum is constructive without being stretched, and that leaves room for the stock to continue working higher without needing to digest a crowded tape first. — Josh Brown,sean Russo, CNBC, 30 July 2026

Activist investing in Japan is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from skepticism to a constructive model. — Robert Daugherty, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026

But unlike some of the controversial routes gaining traction – like dangerous manosphere content or unregulated supplements and injections – Asibuo's approach is more constructive. — Alyssa Goldberg, USA Today, 24 July 2026

Although the trio is known for their high standards and constructive criticism, their off-camera lives reveal a softer side. — Ilana Frost, PEOPLE, 18 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1630, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for constructive

• abductive
• conductive
• deductive
• destructive
• inductive
• instructive
• obstructive
• productive
• reductive
• seductive
• counterproductive
• photoconductive

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