The word "positive" is spelled with the letters P-O-S-I-T-I-V-E. In IPA phonetic transcription, it can be spelled as /ˈpɑzətɪv/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The /p/ sound is produced by closing your lips and then releasing them, followed by the open vowel sound /ɑ/. The /z/ and /t/ sounds are produced by positioning the tongue behind the teeth and then either vibrating or stopping the air flow. The final syllable includes a short /ɪ/ sound followed by a long /v/ sound.
Positive is an adjective that carries various meanings depending on the context. In its most general sense, positive refers to something constructive, affirmative, or beneficial. It denotes a condition, quality, or attribute that is favorable, advantageous, or approving.
In the realm of emotions and attitudes, positive refers to an optimistic, cheerful, or hopeful mindset. It encompasses an outlook that focuses on the good aspects and possibilities, rather than dwelling on negativity or pessimism. Positivity incorporates an inclination towards encouragement, support, and motivation, fostering a sense of confidence and well-being.
Positive can also describe something that is certain, definite, or absolute, opposed to being ambiguous, doubtful, or speculative. It signifies the presence of truth, correctness, or accuracy, exemplifying a sense of assurance or conviction.
Furthermore, positive is frequently used in mathematics and logic to denote a value greater than zero or an assertion that is proven or accepted as true. In this context, it is an indication of the absence of negativity, resistance, or contradiction.
Additionally, positive is employed to describe an electrical charge or a result that shows the presence of a chemical element or substance. It pertains to a desired outcome or response, indicating that something is functioning as expected or intended.
In summary, positive refers to something constructive, beneficial, or optimistic in various contexts, encompassing attributes such as encouragement, assurance, definiteness, and truthfulness.
Sign +. (1) Affirmative, definite, not negative. (2) In laboratory technique, noting the occurrence of the reaction. (3) In diagnosis, noting that examination reveals the presence of an abnormal condition. (4) In postmortem examinations, noting that pathological changes are present.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• Not admitting any condition or discretion; opposed to negative; absolute; direct; explicit; not implied; real; over-confident in opinion or assertion; dogmatical; affirmative; settled by arbitrary appointment; very certain; in gram., applied to the state of an adjective, without any increase or diminution in its signification, indicated by a change in the form or termination.
• That which is capable of being affirmed; reality; a word which affirms or asserts existence.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "positive" originated from the Latin word "positivus", which is derived from "positus", the past participle of the verb "ponere", meaning "to put" or "to place". In its Latin root, "positive" primarily referred to something that had been firmly placed or established. Over time, the word gradually developed extended meanings related to certainty, affirmation, and favorable attributes.