Pronunciation: [pəfˈɛktɪv] (IPA) 
The word "perfective" is spelled as /pərˈfɛktɪv/. Its spelling can be broken down into its phonetic components, with "per" pronounced as /pər/ and "fect" as /fɛkt/. The suffix "-ive" is pronounced as /-ɪv/. The word is often used in linguistics to describe a particular aspect in verb conjugation. It refers to the completion of an action, as opposed to the ongoing process of the action, which is described by the imperfective aspect.
Perfective is an adjective that refers to something related to or characterized by perfection or completion. In linguistics, perfective primarily denotes a grammatical aspect that signifies the completed or finished nature of an action or event. It is used to describe actions that have reached their intended goal or have been accomplished in their entirety.
In the context of verb forms or tenses, perfective often exists in contrast to imperfective. While imperfective aspect focuses on an ongoing or incomplete action, perfective aspect emphasizes the outcome or result of that action. For example, in English, the perfective aspect is often encoded in verb forms such as the simple past tense ("He wrote a book") or the present perfect tense ("She has finished her work").
The use of perfective aspect is not limited to English, as many languages around the world have perfective verb forms or constructions to indicate the completion of actions. It is an important aspect in the study of grammar and semantics, allowing for precise communication of when and how an action has been concluded.
Beyond linguistics, perfective can also describe something that is completely flawless, faultless, or without any defects. It relates to the highest standard of excellence or achievement. In this sense, it can be applied to various fields or endeavors, such as art, music, sports, or craftsmanship. It suggests that the subject or object being described has reached the pinnacle of its potential or has met all criteria of perfection.
Conducting to perfection.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "perfective" has its etymology rooted in the Latin word "perfectus", which means "completed" or "finished". It is derived from the verb "perficere", meaning "to finish" or "to accomplish". The suffix "-ive" is added to the Latin root to form the adjective "perfective", which describes something that is related to or characterized by completion, finality, or perfection. In linguistics, the term "perfective" is used to refer to an aspect that denotes a completed or finished action.
