The meaning of POSITIVE is formally laid down or imposed : prescribed. How to use positive in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Positive.

The most important thing is to go into the exam feeling positive. It's a humbling experience to see people being so positive about life when they have so little.

1. characterized by or expressing certainty or affirmation: a positive answer. 2. composed of or possessing actual or specific qualities; real: a positive benefit. 3. tending to emphasize what is good …

composed of or possessing actual or specific qualities; real: a positive benefit tending to emphasize what is good or laudable; constructive: he takes a very positive attitude when correcting pupils' mistakes

Definition of positive adjective in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

If you are positive, you are hopeful and confident, and think of the good aspects of a situation rather than the bad ones.

There are 39 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word positive, seven of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Feb 1, 2026 · (grammar) An adjective or adverb in the positive degree. (photography) A positive image; one that displays true colors and shades, not their opposites or complements.

Positive can be defined as something that is favorable, advantageous, or constructive. It refers to a quality, attitude, thought, action, or outcome that promotes optimism, growth, well-being, or progress.

Positive definition: Characterized by or displaying certainty, acceptance, or affirmation.