negativism

noun

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neg·a·tiv·ism | \ ˈne-gə-ti-ˌvi-zəm

Definition of negativism

1 : an attitude of mind marked by skepticism especially about nearly everything affirmed by others

2 : a tendency to refuse to do, to do the opposite of, or to do something at variance with what is asked

Other Words from negativism Example Sentences Learn More About negativism

Other Words from negativism

negativist \ ˈne-gə-ti-vist

\ noun or adjective

negativistic \ ˌne-gə-ti-ˈvi-stik

\ adjective

Examples of negativism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The upbeat tone and pervasive kindness of this comedy has elicited raves at a time when negativism surrounds us. — Jeanne Jakle, San Antonio Express-News, 20 Dec. 2021 But along with the unfortunate social negativism, there came a fierce pride in America and it’s history. — Steve West, sun-sentinel.com, 19 Nov. 2021 Toxic divisions, fractured communities, anger, negativism. — Alan J. Borsuk, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2021 Krukow’s first big-league experience was in 1976 with the Chicago Cubs, where corners were being cut, morale dipped, and negativism pervaded the team. — Ann Killion, SFChronicle.com, 7 June 2020 All those nattering nabobs of negativism in the press were certainly guaranteed to give this speech the back of the hand, right? — Jamie Dupree, AJC.com, 31 Jan. 2018 Surprisingly, that is saying quite a lot more than simple reductive negativism. — Victor Davis Hanson, National Review, 16 Jan. 2018 If Tebow does not in fact disagree with Jeffress on any of these points, then his decision looks like nothing more than craven capitulation to the nattering nabobs of negativism and intolerance. — Robert Klemko, SI.com, 17 Aug. 2017 Yes, negativism begets hostility, but Jackson’s inflated paychecks demand greater professionalism. — Harvey Araton, New York Times, 10 Jan. 2017 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'negativism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.