constructive Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective constructing or tending to construct or improve or promote development
    • constructive criticism
    • a constructive attitude
    • a constructive philosophy
    • constructive permission
  2. adjective satellite emphasizing what is laudable or hopeful or to the good
    • constructive criticism

WordNet

Con*struct"ive adjective
Etymology
Cf. F. constructif.
Definitions
  1. Having ability to construct or form; employed in construction; as, to exhibit constructive power.
    The constructive fingers of Watts. Emerson.
  2. Derived from, or depending on, construction or interpretation; not directly expressed, but inferred.

Webster 1913