reactive
5 synonyms and 2 antonyms for reactive, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Responding to events after they happen rather than planning ahead for them.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
unreactive
proactive
How to use reactive
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
reactive approach
highly reactive
Etymology
From "react" plus the adjective suffix "-ive."
Full origin of reactive →Frequently asked questions
What does “reactive” mean?
The word “reactive” means responding to events after they happen rather than planning ahead for them. In plain terms, responding to things after they occur, or, for chemicals, quick to undergo reactions.
How do you pronounce “reactive”?
“Reactive” is pronounced ree-AK-tihv (/ɹiˈæktɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “reactive” in a sentence?
Here is “reactive” used in a sentence: “The company took a reactive approach, only fixing problems once customers complained.”
What is the opposite of “reactive”?
The opposite of “reactive” — its antonyms — is proactive.
What part of speech is “reactive”?
“Reactive” is an adjective.
Is “reactive” a common word?
“Reactive” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “reactive” have?
“Reactive” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: responding to events after they happen rather than planning ahead for them.
What is the difference between reactive and proactive?
Reactive describes responding to events only after they happen, rather than planning ahead to prevent or shape them. Proactive is the opposite, meaning to anticipate problems and act in advance rather than waiting to respond.
What does reactive mean in chemistry?
In a chemical context, reactive describes a substance that readily undergoes a chemical reaction, meaning it changes or combines easily with other substances. This differs from the everyday sense, which describes responding to events after they occur.
Is reactive a negative trait in management or behavior?
Reactive is often used with a mildly critical tone, suggesting a lack of planning, since it implies responding to problems only after they arise. It is frequently contrasted unfavorably with being proactive or prepared.
