Definition

This word describes something that shows or relates to an agent, which is a person or thing that performs an action. For example, in language, it refers to forms that indicate who is doing the action.

Example

In linguistics, the term 'agentive' describes forms that denote the doer of an action.

Conversation

I just learned about the concept of an agentive construction in my linguistics class.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It refers to forms that show who is doing the action, like the suffix -er in 'singer'.

That sounds interesting! I never thought about language that way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A form of a word that indicates the doer of an action or the one who performs a task.

Example

In linguistics, the term 'agentive' describes a form that indicates the doer of an action.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about the concept of agentive forms in grammar?

I think so, but I'm not entirely sure what it means.

It's really interesting; it refers to how subjects perform actions in sentences, making them more dynamic.

Root Explanation

Agentive → It is formed from "agens" (from Latin, meaning doing or acting) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "agentive" refers to something that has the nature of acting or doing, often used in grammar to describe a form that indicates the doer of an action.

Memory Tip

Think of 'acting' ('agens') to remember that 'agentive' describes something that has the nature of doing or acting.

Visually Confused Words