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negativistic

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌnɛɡəˈtɪvɪstɪk/

KK: /nɛgətɪˈvɪstɪk/

adjective
Definition

Having a tendency to be negative or pessimistic, often in a subtle or indirect way.


Example

His negativistic attitude made it difficult for the team to stay motivated.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you noticed how some people can be really negativistic about everything?
Sloth B
Yeah, it can be draining to be around them.
Sloth A
Exactly! It’s like they always find a way to complain.
Sloth B
I know, sometimes it's better to steer clear of that energy.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pessimistic
defeatist
cynical
Antonyms
optimistic
positive
hopeful
Root Explanation

Negativistic → It is formed from "negative" (from Latin "negativus", meaning denying or refusing) and "-istic" (meaning pertaining to or characteristic of). The word "negativistic" refers to a tendency to be negative or to deny positive aspects.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'negative' which means denying something, and the suffix '-istic' indicates a characteristic. This helps you remember that 'negativistic' describes a tendency to focus on the negative.

Visually Confused Words
nativistic
relativistic
nativist
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