Positively

ˈpɒzɪtɪvli

adverbBeginner🔥Very CommonGeneral
2 meanings1 idiom/phrase3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

In a positive manner; favorably or optimistically.

ˈpɒzɪtɪvli

adverbpositiveBeginner
General

In a positive way

She responded positively to the suggestion.

💡 Simply: When you're describing something good, like when someone gives a thumbs-up! Think, "She positively aced the test!" That means she did a GREAT job!

👶 For kids: When something is good or happy. Like, "The dog wagged its tail positively!"

More Examples

2

The reviews for the new restaurant were overwhelmingly positive.

3

The experiment yielded positively favorable results.

How It's Used

General

"He reacted positively to the news."

Business

"The company is doing positively in terms of growth."

2

Absolutely; definitely; certainly (often used for emphasis).

ˈpɒzɪtɪvli

adverbneutralmedium
General

Absolutely or definitely

She was positively glowing after the compliment.

💡 Simply: When you REALLY mean it! Like saying, "The movie was positively fantastic!" It means it was super, super good!

👶 For kids: When you're saying something is totally true or really, really good. Like, "That pizza was positively delicious!"

More Examples

2

The food was positively delicious!

3

I am positively sure I locked the door.

How It's Used

Informal

"The cake was positively amazing!"

Emphasis

"I positively refuse to go."

Tip:Think of a positive and certain assertion.

Idioms & expressions

think positively

To have an optimistic outlook.

"It's important to think positively when facing challenges."

From Middle French *positif* (affirmative) + -ly (adverbial suffix). Ultimately from Latin *positus*, past participle of *ponere* (to place, put).

The word *positively* has evolved over time from a straightforward statement of certainty or affirmation to include more emphatic and emotionally-charged usage, especially in modern English.

Memory tip

Think of a positive attitude.

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"To place, to put."

react positivelythink positivelyrespond positivelyfeel positivelyview positively

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written