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

Joseph is respected by peers and faculty for his constructive feedback, reliability, and leadership in exhibitions and productions. —Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 15 Mar. 2026

Engages in effective conflict resolution Handling conflict in a healthy and constructive way is a key trait of a partner who would make a good parent, explains Chicvak. —Sherri Gordon, Parents, 14 Mar. 2026

By using certain teaching strategies, educators can responsibly and safely encourage students to participate in respectful, constructive conversations about difficult topics, such as the Iran war. —Boaz Dvir, The Conversation, 14 Mar. 2026

Starbucks has quietly rebuilt a constructive technical setup over the last several months and is now pushing into a key breakout area just above $100. —Josh Brown,sean Russo, CNBC, 12 Mar. 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