positively

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.".

“Positively” is pronounced POZ-ih-tihv-lee (/ˈpɑ.zɪ.tɪv.li/ in IPA).

Here is “positively” used in a sentence: “She responded positively to the criticism.”

“Positively” is an adverb.

“Positively” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Positively” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in a hopeful or constructive way.

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.

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.

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.

'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.