declarative

adjective

de·​clar·​a·​tive di-ˈkler-ə-tiv 

: making a declaration : declaratory

a declarative sentence

declaratively adverb

Examples of declarative in a Sentence

“They went to school” is a declarative sentence.

Recent Examples on the Web

Even more pertinent, Everett tells his story in short, declarative sentences, a striking difference from many other contemporary novelists who, in an effort to sound lyrical, favor long, convoluted sentences. —Jerry Weissman, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2025

So, discussing the competition at both guard spots here isn’t declarative, but merely speculative. —Paul Dehner Jr, New York Times, 27 July 2025

There is a stillness to the painting, a declarative, dreamy flatness, as if the women are being remembered rather than observed. —Alexandra Schwartz, New Yorker, 11 July 2025

Sometimes, adding a caveat to a declarative message serves to attenuate — or even to completely undermine — that message. —Charles C. W. Cooke, National Review, 10 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing declarative

• the declarative

Rhymes for declarative

• comparative
• imperative
• preparative

Kids Definition

declarative

adjective

de·​clar·​a·​tive di-ˈklar-ət-iv 

-ˈkler-

: making a declaration or statement

declarative sentence

Medical Definition

declarative

adjective

de·​clar·​a·​tive di-ˈklar-ət-iv, -ˈkler- 

: being or comprising memory characterized by the conscious recall of facts and events compare procedural