Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈprɪvətɪvli/
KK: /ˈprɪvətɪvli/
Definition
In a way that indicates the absence or negation of something.
Example
The term is used privatively to describe what is not present in the situation.
Conversation

I feel like some people approach challenges too privatively without considering the possibilities.

That's interesting! I guess they focus on what's missing rather than what they can gain.

Exactly! It’s like they limit themselves by thinking negatively all the time.

Right, a more positive outlook can really change the game.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
negatively
exclusively
solely
Antonyms
positively
inclusively
additively
Root Explanation
Privatively → It is formed from "privare" (meaning to deprive) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "privatively" refers to doing something in a manner that deprives or negates something.
Memory Tip
Think of 'depriving' ('privare') something when you do it 'in a manner' ('-ly'). This helps you remember that 'privatively' means to do something in a way that negates or takes away.
Visually Confused Words
derivatively
provocatively
predicatively
variatively
purgatively
prolatively
probatively
primitively