negative
Meaning: Bad or harmful; expressing refusal; less than zero
The word 'negative' describes something bad, harmful, or unfavourable. In grammar, it refers to words expressing denial or refusal (no, not, never). In mathematics, it means less than zero. A negative test result means no sign of what was tested for. 'Negative' can also be a noun (a photographic negative).
Examples
- The review had a very negative tone. 这篇评论语气非常负面。La reseña tenía un tono muy negativo.そのレビューは非常に否定的なトーンでした。그 리뷰는 매우 부정적인 어조였습니다.
- The pregnancy test came back negative. 妊娠测试结果为阴性。La prueba de embarazo dio negativo.妊娠検査は陰性でした。임신 검사 결과는 음성이었습니다.
- Try not to focus on the negative aspects. 尽量不要关注负面的方面。Intenta no centrarte en los aspectos negativos.ネガティブな面に注目しないようにしましょう。부정적인 면에 집중하지 않도록 합시다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Old French 'negatif', from Latin 'negativus' meaning 'denying', from 'negare' (to deny, to say no), from 'nec' (not). Related to 'negate', 'neglect', and 'negotiate' (which originally meant 'not at leisure').
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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