positively
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for positively, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — In a hopeful or constructive way.
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.
How to use positively
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English positively, equivalent to positive + -ly.
Full origin of positively →Frequently asked questions
What does “positively” mean?
The word “positively” means in a hopeful or constructive way. In plain terms, in a good or hopeful way, or as an intensifier meaning "absolutely.".
How do you pronounce “positively”?
“Positively” is pronounced POZ-ih-tihv-lee (/ˈpɑ.zɪ.tɪv.li/ in IPA).
How do you use “positively” in a sentence?
Here is “positively” used in a sentence: “She responded positively to the criticism.”
What part of speech is “positively”?
“Positively” is an adverb.
Is “positively” a common word?
“Positively” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “positively” have?
“Positively” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in a hopeful or constructive way.
What is the difference between 'positively' and 'definitely'?
Both words can express strong certainty, but 'positively' often adds forceful emphasis to something surprising or hard to believe, as in 'she was positively glowing.' 'Definitely' simply confirms that something is certain or settled, without the same emotional colour.
When should you use 'positively' instead of 'negatively'?
Use 'positively' to describe acting in a hopeful, constructive, or approving way, and 'negatively' for the opposite. For example, responding positively to feedback means welcoming it, while responding negatively means resisting or criticising it.
What words commonly follow 'positively' when it means 'absolutely'?
In its emphatic sense, 'positively' often pairs with strong adjectives or verbs, as in 'positively delighted,' 'positively enormous,' or 'positively refuse.' Here it intensifies the following word rather than describing a hopeful manner.
Is 'positively' formal or informal?
'Positively' works in both formal and informal English. Its emphatic sense ('positively thrilled') is common in expressive, conversational speech, while its constructive sense ('respond positively') appears often in formal and professional writing.