Definition

Describing something that responds quickly to changes or stimuli.

Example

The reactive nature of the chemical made it very useful in experiments.

Conversation

I noticed you have a very reactive way of dealing with problems.

Yeah, I try to respond quickly to changes.

I think being reactive can really help in stressful situations.

Definitely! It keeps things from getting out of hand.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reactive → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again or back) and "act" (from Latin "agere", meaning to do or act). The word "reactive" describes something that acts again or in response to a stimulus.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'acts back' ('re-') in response to an action ('act'). This helps you remember that 'reactive' means responding to something.

Visually Confused Words