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

Registration on the Principal Register provides nationwide constructive notice, a legal presumption of ownership, and the right to use the ® symbol — tools that matter when knockoffs and unauthorized merchandise inevitably appear. —Pj Green april 8, Kansas City Star, 8 Apr. 2026

Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry said Tuesday that the talks had been constructive. —ABC News, 8 Apr. 2026

Try to curb any negativity and offer constructive feedback about what your child needs. —Amanda Morin, Parents, 6 Apr. 2026

Treat the relationship like your other work dynamics Just like getting promoted over your friend, or giving your manager some constructive feedback, becoming your boss' boss can be tricky. —Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 6 Apr. 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