Words / B1

k-uh-n-STRUKT-iv/kənˈstrʌktɪv/

Constructive means helpful and intended to improve: constructive criticism; constructive talks. Construction is building work (already in the dictionary) — a different family in most exam uses. Destructive is an opposite flavour. Peer review: keep it constructive, not personal.

Meaning

Helpful and intended to improve something (constructive criticism / talks).

Examples

• “Keep the peer review constructive, not personal.”
• “Constructive dismissal is a legal term — do not use it as “helpful firing”.”

Good to know

constructive criticism / talks / feedback. Mix-up: construction (building). Opposite flavour: destructive. Workplace / unions. Legal: constructive dismissal (later / specialist).

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