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perfective

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /pərˈfɛktɪv/

KK: /pɜrˈfɛktɪv/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a grammatical aspect that indicates an action is completed or has a result, or describing something that aims for perfection.


Example

In some languages, the perfective aspect is used to show that an action has been fully completed.


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard you’re studying grammar more seriously now.
Sloth B
Yeah, I want to understand the perfective aspect better.
Sloth A
That's cool! Do you think it helps with your writing skills?
Sloth B
Definitely! It makes my sentences sound more complete.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
complete
ideal
flawless
Antonyms
imperfect
deficient
incomplete
noun
Definition

A grammatical term that refers to a verb form that expresses a completed action or state.


Example

In some languages, the perfective aspect is used to indicate that an action has been fully completed.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the perfective aspect in grammar?
Sloth B
Yeah, it can be a bit tricky to understand sometimes.
Sloth A
I know, right? I was reading about how it changes the meaning of verbs.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Perfective → It is formed from "perfectus" (meaning completed or finished) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "perfective" refers to having the nature of completeness or indicating a completed action.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'completed' ('perfectus') and how it has the nature of being whole or finished.

Visually Confused Words
imperfective
erective
perspective
persecutive
refective
precative
preactive
effective
Is this page helpful?
Exactly! It really adds depth to how we express actions.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
aspect
form
tense
Antonyms
imperfective
incomplete
flawed