Definition

Not helpful or useful; not contributing positively to a situation or discussion.

Example

His unconstructive criticism did not help the team improve their project.

Conversation

I find some feedback to be really unconstructive sometimes.

I know what you mean; it can be frustrating to hear.

Exactly! It feels like they just want to criticize without helping.

Right, constructive criticism is so much more valuable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unconstructive → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "construct" (from Latin "construere", meaning to build). The word "unconstructive" means not building or contributing positively to a situation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') contributing to 'building' ('construct') — that's why unconstructive means not helping to build something positive.

Visually Confused Words