Productive

Definition

Productive typically describes the quality of yielding positive, useful, or significant results, especially in terms of work or economic value.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prəˈdʌktɪv/
• Respelling: pruh-DUK-tiv (with "pruh" as in "product," "DUK" as in "duck," and "tiv" as in "active")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prəˈdʌktɪv/
• Respelling: pruh-DUK-tiv (similar to American English, with "pruh" as in "product," "DUK" as in "duck," and "tiv" as in "active")

In both dialects, "productive" is pronounced with the primary stress on the second syllable, "DUK." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with emphasis on the "DUK" part.

Etymology

The term "productive" comes from the Latin "productivus," from "producere," which means "to lead or bring forth." "Producere" itself is formed from "pro-" (forward) and "ducere" (to lead). By the late 16th century, it entered the English language, initially referring to the power of producing.

Derivatives

• Productiveness
• Productivity
• Unproductive
• Reproductive
• Hyperproductive

Synonyms

• Efficient
• Fruitful
• Profitable

Antonyms

• Unproductive
• Inefficient
• Barren

Usage

"Productive" is often used to describe individuals, activities, or systems that yield significant results or benefits, especially in professional or economic contexts.

Related Terms

• Production
• Product
• Produce

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Yielding Good Results: Bringing about or yielding favorable or beneficial outcomes; effective.
• Example: Having a clear to-do list makes my day more productive.

• Relating to Production: Pertaining to or engaged in the act of producing goods, commodities, or crops.
• Example: The factory was one of the most productive in the region.

• Fertile: (of soil or land) Yielding crops in large quantities.
• Example: The Nile Delta is known for its productive farmland.

• Profitable: Generating a profit or financial gain.
• Example: Their new marketing strategy proved to be highly productive.