adj
constructive
kuhn-STRUHK-tihv
adj
1
Helpful and useful, especially in offering solutions or improvements rather than just criticism.
"She gave constructive feedback that actually helped him improve the essay."
"Let's keep this meeting constructive instead of just complaining."
2
Legally treated as existing or having happened, even though it wasn't stated directly.
"The court found the employee had suffered constructive dismissal."
How to Use Constructive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUseful and helpful, especially feedback that builds someone up rather than tearing them down.
Common mistake
Don't confuse "constructive criticism" (helpful, specific feedback) with just being negative — the point of the word is that it aims to improve, not just find fault.
Common pairings
constructive criticism
constructive feedback
constructive dismissal
Word Forms
more constructive comparative, most constructive superlative
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She gave _____ feedback that actually helped him improve the essay.
Etymology
From Latin constructivus, from construere ("to build"). By surface analysis, construct + -ive.