VocabDictionary

productive

/prəˈdʌk.tɪv/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Achieving or producing a significant amount or result, especially in relation to the effort, time, and resources expended.

Example Sentences:
  • She had a very productive afternoon, finishing three chapters of her book.
  • The meeting was long, but ultimately productive as we reached a consensus.
2.adjective

Yielding favorable or abundant results; fertile or causative.

Example Sentences:
  • The soil in this river valley is exceptionally productive for agriculture.
  • His curiosity was productive of many new technological innovations.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “productive”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Late Latin 'productivus', meaning 'that which has the power to produce', formed from the Latin 'productus' (past participle of 'producere', meaning 'to lead forward, bring forth, produce'). It entered the English language in the mid-17th century, initially relating to creation and generation, before expanding to describe efficiency and output.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone who PRO-duces-ACTive results to remember they are productive.

Frequently Asked Questions About “productive

1. What is the meaning of “productive” in English?

In English, productive (adjective) is defined as: “Achieving or producing a significant amount or result, especially in relation to the effort, time, and resources expended.”.

2. How do you use “productive” in a sentence?

She had a very productive afternoon, finishing three chapters of her book.

3. What are English synonyms of “productive”?

Common synonyms include:efficient,fruitful,effective,fertile

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “productive”?

Derived from the Late Latin 'productivus', meaning 'that which has the power to produce', formed from the Latin 'productus' (past participle of 'producere', meaning 'to lead forward, bring forth, produce'). It entered the English language in the mid-17th century, initially relating to creation and generation, before expanding to describe efficiency and output.