RETENTIVE Synonyms: 27 Similar and Opposite Words

retentive

adjective

Definition of retentive

as in careful

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of retentive Asters thrive in cooler, moisture-retentive soil and can tolerate partial shade, while morning glories prefer full sun and well-draining, poorer soils. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 11 July 2026 Cabbage plants also benefit from moisture-retentive clay as long as gardens don’t stay soggy long enough to lead to rot. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026 The velocity of decisions and the inverse of that, though, is when these decisions are made, there are incredibly sticky and retentive businesses. — Aaron Weitzman, Axios, 9 Sep. 2024 As well as attracting a significant number of new Discovery+ subscribers, sports broadens its appeal throughout the whole household and provides consumers an even greater, more retentive value proposition. — Georg Szalai, The Hollywood Reporter, 14 Feb. 2022 Energy firms tend to be slow to acquire as customers, but these energy targets are highly retentive once onboarded as customers. — John Tough, Forbes, 21 Dec. 2021 Jane was an anal retentive young mom whose professional dream was to become a bestselling novelist. — Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2021 Her ministers fear her ferociously retentive memory for the details of their portfolios—including the particulars of complex technical and scientific issues, such as trade, digital technology, and, lately, the pandemic. — Constanze Stelzenmüller, Foreign Affairs, 20 Apr. 2021

Recent Examples of Synonyms for retentive

Adjective

But the series is careful to cast suspicions in a multitude of directions, not merely at Michael but at several people in Sarah’s orbit who only reveal themselves when backed into corners.

— Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 23 July 2026
Since pilot and crew remains may also still be buried underground, careful excavation work is even more important.

— Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 23 July 2026

Definition of careful

Adjective

Perhaps in a conscientious effort to make sure guests don’t feel trapped, the tiny suite doors—just about five-foot-two high—do not automatically lock.

— Kathryn Romeyn, Travel + Leisure, 17 July 2026
Gluten-free cones are available, and conscientious staff always wash their hands and change gloves for celiacs.

— Luke Pyenson, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026

Definition of conscientious

Adjective

Thanks to persistent inflation, the soaring cost of living, and AI making employers cautious about hiring (and everyday people cautious of spending), entry-level part-time jobs like lifeguarding and retail assistants are disappearing.

— Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune, 25 July 2026
Some are more cautious about buying nonessentials like takeout coffee.

— ABC News, ABC News, 25 July 2026

Definition of cautious

Adjective

Jackson is not a clinical finisher, and his composure in front of goal is often circumspect.

— Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 21 July 2026
The speech that followed created the perception of her as a firebrand, but those who have followed her career closely have found a more circumspect figure.

— Tom Kludt, Vanity Fair, 17 July 2026

Definition of circumspect

Adjective

Global oil prices fell sharply on Monday after a pause in fighting between the United States and Iran, though traders remain wary.

— Nadeen Ebrahim, CNN Money, 27 July 2026
The campaign has taken the protests demanding accountability and education reforms beyond the streets, broadening its reach and intensifying pressure on a government wary of appearing to yield to a rapidly growing youth movement.

— ABC News, ABC News, 25 July 2026

Definition of wary

Adjective

Rather than rushing from port to port, Explora Journeys was designed around the idea that luxury is measured by space, time, and thoughtful experiences.

— Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 24 July 2026
Each chamber in the intimate inn has its own character, and pairs thoughtful amenities with tech-forward convenience.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 July 2026

Definition of thoughtful

Adjective

Her heedful eyes meet those of a young Black girl in overalls and braids on the other side of the room.

— Hazlitt, Hazlitt, 9 Aug. 2023
That’s partly because retailers have grown less heedful about developing the necessary pipelines, a problem that’s worsened in recent years as retailers saw profits crushed by a push into low-margin e-commerce.

— Phil Wahba, Fortune, 13 Feb. 2023

Definition of heedful

Browse Nearby Words

retention

retentive

retest

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“Retentive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retentive. Accessed 30 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of retentive

adjective

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