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

• 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

The world requires constructive and cooperative approaches to promote trade that is sustainable. —Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 9 Sep. 2025

The week’s top movers were propelled by upbeat quarterly surprises, sizable chip agreements, and constructive regulatory developments. —Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

If the Kingdom locks those reforms in while sustaining a realistic pace on its mega-projects and widening space for constructive debate, the payoff will extend far beyond its borders to a more stable and economically productive Arab region better able to compete in the world. —Ali Shihabi, Time, 8 Sep. 2025

McClure also recommends a question that opens the door for constructive feedback. —Alyshia Hull, USA Today, 7 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1680, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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