a negative position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a negative position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a stance or viewpoint that is unfavorable or pessimistic regarding a particular issue or situation. Example: "The committee took a negative position on the proposed changes to the policy, citing concerns about potential drawbacks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"This is not a negative position, for us it is a positive thing.

The Guardian

If one of the \ \phi_i\) contains an existential quantifier in a positive position (or a universal quantifier in a negative position) it can be thought of as invoking a systematic search through the domain \ \bD\) for a verifying witness.

SEP

But if \ \phi_i\) should contain a universal quantifier in a positive position or an existential quantifier in a negative position, something must be verified for every member of the domain and unless the domain is finite, this is not a human task.

SEP

One of the biggest complaints about us non-religious types is that ours is essentially a negative position.

The Guardian - Opinion

"For those people, a negative position on Avandia may be a death sentence".

The New York Times - Health

To save time printing, the vectors are "terminated" with a directive to move the plotter head to a negative position (which is out of range).

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

I did not start going full force into entrepreneurship until a negative situation positioned me to change the direction of my life.

HuffPost

Hillary Rodham Clinton has ticked back up slightly, moving from a net negative position in May of 45-49 favorable-unfavorable to a net positive position of 52-45 favorable-unfavorable.

The Washington Post

Since the equation is one of a straight line, any point on the extension of the line through the points representing the two traded securities is available by combining a long (positive) position in one with a short (negative) position in the other.

Stanford University

In itself, atheism is an entirely negative position.

The Guardian

Looking at the latest published approval ratings, Ed Miliband has improved from his poor position in January and is performing slightly ahead of David Cameron, who is now in an entrenched negative position.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a negative position", ensure the context clearly indicates what the position is negative towards. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a negative position" without providing context. Readers need to understand the subject of the negativity to grasp the full meaning. Instead of saying 'The company has a negative position', specify: 'The company has a negative position on the proposed merger'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a negative position" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, denoting a stance or viewpoint that is unfavorable, opposing, or critical. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a stance or viewpoint that is unfavorable or pessimistic regarding a particular issue or situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a negative position" is a common noun phrase used to express opposition, disapproval, or a critical viewpoint. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. It's most frequently encountered in News & Media and Scientific sources, but also appears in more formal and business contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to provide clear context regarding the subject of the negativity to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "a pessimistic stance" or "an unfavorable viewpoint" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pessimistic stance

Emphasizes the pessimistic nature of the viewpoint.

an unfavorable viewpoint

Highlights the lack of favor or approval.

an opposing argument

Focuses on the adversarial nature of the position.

a contrary opinion

Stresses the disagreement or opposition to a prevailing view.

an adverse situation

Shifts the focus to a problematic or unfavorable set of circumstances.

a disadvantageous state

Highlights the lack of advantage or benefit.

a critical perspective

Emphasizes the analytical and potentially fault-finding nature of the view.

a downside assessment

Focuses on evaluating the potential negative aspects or risks.

an area of concern

Highlights a specific issue that requires attention or worry.

a precarious situation

Indicates instability and potential for negative outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "a negative position" in a sentence?

You can use "a negative position" to describe a stance against something. For example: "The committee took "a negative position" on the proposed changes.".

What's the difference between "a negative position" and "an unfavorable viewpoint"?

"A negative position" generally refers to a stance of opposition or disapproval, while "an unfavorable viewpoint" simply suggests a lack of support or positivity. The former is often more active.

What can I say instead of "a negative position"?

You can use alternatives like "a pessimistic stance", "an opposing argument", or "a contrary opinion" depending on the specific context.

Is it always bad to have "a negative position"?

Not necessarily. Taking ""a negative position"" can be a sign of critical thinking or due diligence, highlighting potential drawbacks or risks that might otherwise be overlooked.