Synonyms for

Negative

Adjective / ˈnegʌtɪv / Another word for negative — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Negative means expressing or implying the opposite of something. It can also mean unpleasant, harmful, or unwanted.

Synonyms & similar words

minus affirmative damaging disconfirming electronegative blackball veto neutral positive unfavorable adverse contrary unpleasant harmful unwanted opposed opposing antagonistic hostile pessimistic cynical defeatist disapproving critical opinionated picky demanding fault-finding uncooperative

Synonyms by register

Formal

adverse detrimental unfavorable disadvantageous

Informal

bad downer bummer lousy

Literary

baleful pernicious ominous

Antonyms

positive affirmative good constructive optimistic favorable beneficial

Common collocations

  • negative impact
  • negative effect
  • negative attitude
  • negative feedback
  • negative consequences
  • negative emotions
  • negative number

Word family

noun negativity
verb negate
adjective negative
adverb negatively

Usage note

Often used in contexts of science, mathematics, and psychology. Be mindful of its strong connotation of 'bad' or 'unpleasant' in everyday conversation.

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Example sentences

  1. The teacher gave me a negative comment on my paper.
  2. He has a negative attitude towards everything.
  3. The test results came back negative.
  4. The company is experiencing negative growth.
  5. I don't want to be around people with negative energy.

Quotes

  • A negative mind will never give you a positive life. - Ziad K. Abdelnour
  • The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today. Let us move forward with strong and active faith. - Franklin D. Roosevelt
  • Stay positive and happy. Work hard and don't give up hope. Be open to criticism and keep learning. Surround yourself with happy, warm and genuine people. - Tena Desae

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