in the affirmative

phrase

: with an affirmative reply : with a reply that means "yes"
He answered in the affirmative.

Cite this Entry

“In the affirmative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20the%20affirmative. Accessed 25 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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