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proactively

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /prəʊˈæktɪvli/

KK: /proʊˈæktɪvli/

adverb
Definition

In a way that involves taking action in advance to prevent problems or to create opportunities.


Example

She approached the project proactively, ensuring all potential issues were addressed before they arose.


Conversation
Sloth A
I think it's important to plan our projects proactively instead of waiting until the last minute.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It helps reduce stress and makes everything smoother.
Sloth A
Right? If we work proactively, we can spot any issues early on.
Sloth B
Exactly! Plus, it gives us more time to be creative with our ideas.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
anticipatorily
preemptively
preventively
Antonyms
reactively
passively
negatively
Root Explanation

Proactively → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning for or in favor of) and "act" (from Latin "agere", meaning to do or to act) and the suffix "-ively" (meaning in a manner). The word "proactively" means to act in favor of something or to take initiative in doing something before it becomes necessary.

Memory Tip

Think of acting 'for' something ('pro-') and 'doing' something ('act') in a certain way ('-ively'). This helps you remember that proactively means taking initiative before it's needed.

Visually Confused Words
prolatively
probatively
preactively
protectively
projectively
productively
rotatively
reactively
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