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

Real news can be honest, hopeful, credible, constructive. —Ken Makin, The Christian Science Monitor, 22 Nov. 2023

Speaking of OpenAI, Emmett Shear, the organization’s former interim CEO, recently made bold predictions that AI will inevitably replace the CEO role, especially tasks related to communication, problem and opportunity detection, talent identification, and providing constructive feedback. —Paige McGlauflin, Fortune, 22 Nov. 2023

Hopefully people keep it constructive and positive. —Katcy Stephan, Variety, 17 Nov. 2023

With healthy accommodation, a partner attempts to respond with a positive, constructive approach and a willingness to prioritize the relationship over individual differences. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 13 Nov. 2023

All the defendants are being sued for unjust enrichment and constructive trust. —Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 13 Nov. 2023

Overcoming the fear of potential social or academic repercussions, along with the support of campus leadership, is essential for students to express their perspectives and contribute to a constructive dialogue. —Benjamin Weinthal, Fox News, 11 Nov. 2023

Having some time in groups and some time on your own seems to be the most constructive. —Geoff Colvin, Fortune, 6 Nov. 2023

In the process, the two forge a deep bond, of major practical consequence, that proves Paul’s virtues as a teacher and sets Angus on a constructive path. —Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 31 Oct. 2023

See More

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