descriptive
4 synonyms and 3 antonyms for descriptive, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Giving a detailed account or picture of something in words.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
Etymology
From Latin descriptivus, "giving a full account," from describere (see "describe").
Full origin of descriptive →Frequently asked questions
What does “descriptive” mean?
The word “descriptive” means giving a detailed account or picture of something in words. In plain terms, full of detail that paints a picture, or (in language study) reporting real usage rather than dictating rules.
How do you pronounce “descriptive”?
“Descriptive” is pronounced dih-SKRIHP-tihv (/dɪˈskɹɪptɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “descriptive” in a sentence?
Here is “descriptive” used in a sentence: “Her writing style is highly descriptive, full of colour and detail.”
What is the opposite of “descriptive”?
The opposite of “descriptive” — its antonyms — are prescriptive, normative and non-descriptive.
What part of speech is “descriptive”?
“Descriptive” is an adjective.
Where does the word “descriptive” come from?
The word “descriptive” comes from Latin. From Latin descriptivus, "giving a full account," from describere (see "describe").
Is “descriptive” a common word?
“Descriptive” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “descriptive” have?
“Descriptive” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: giving a detailed account or picture of something in words.
What is the difference between descriptive and prescriptive grammar?
Descriptive grammar records how language is actually used by speakers, without judging whether that use is correct, while prescriptive grammar lays down rules for how language should be used according to a set standard. Dictionaries and modern linguists tend to favor descriptive approaches, whereas traditional grammar books are often prescriptive.
What is the difference between descriptive and narrative writing?
Descriptive writing focuses on giving a detailed account or picture of something in words, emphasizing sensory details and imagery, while narrative writing focuses on telling a sequence of events or a story. Descriptive passages can appear within a narrative to enrich scenes, but the two serve different primary purposes.
What kind of words make writing more descriptive?
Adjectives, adverbs, and vivid sensory details are the main tools that make writing more descriptive, since they help paint a detailed picture in the reader's mind. Descriptive writing relies on these elements to convey how something looks, sounds, feels, or otherwise appears.