a positive

USAGE SUMMARY

"a positive" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is seen as favorable or beneficial, such as a "positive attitude," or a "positive outcome." For example, "We are seeing a positive trend in our sales numbers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A positive?

The New York Times

a positive.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"That's a positive sign.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a positive sign".

The New York Times

That's a positive presence".

The New York Times

It's actually a positive".

The Guardian - Business

They're a positive influence.

The New York Times

It has a positive.

The New York Times - Magazine

"That's always a positive.

The New York Times - Sports

On a positive note!

Independent

"In a positive way".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a positive", ensure it clearly modifies the noun it precedes to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "That's a positive", specify "That's a positive sign" or "That's a positive outcome".

Common error

Avoid using "a positive" as a standalone statement without context. Always specify what is positive to make your meaning clear. For instance, avoid saying "The results are a positive" without clarifying what aspect of the results is positive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a positive" primarily functions as an adjective modifying a noun. It indicates that something is beneficial, favorable, or advantageous. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage, confirming its adjectival role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a positive" is a versatile and commonly used adjective phrase that signifies something beneficial or favorable. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across diverse contexts, including news, media, and business. When using "a positive", be sure to provide context to avoid ambiguity and to clearly identify what aspect is positive. Consider using alternatives such as ""a good thing"" or ""an advantage"" depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember that the most authoritative sources consistently use the term in accordance with standard grammatical practices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a good thing

Focuses on the beneficial or advantageous aspect of something.

an advantage

Highlights the beneficial aspect, emphasizing a gain or edge.

a benefit

Stresses the helpful or advantageous quality.

a plus

Conveys the idea of something favorable or beneficial in a concise way.

a favorable aspect

Highlights a beneficial or advantageous feature or characteristic.

a step forward

Emphasizes progress or advancement.

an encouraging sign

Indicates something that inspires hope or confidence.

a constructive element

Focuses on something that builds or contributes positively.

a welcome addition

Highlights that something is gladly received or added.

an optimistic outlook

Emphasizes a hopeful and confident perspective.

FAQs

How can I use "a positive" in a sentence?

Use "a positive" to describe something beneficial or favorable. For example, "Maintaining "a positive attitude" can help you overcome challenges".

What are some alternatives to saying "a positive"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a good thing", "an advantage", or "a benefit" to express a similar idea.

Is it correct to say "a positive is" or "a positive are"?

Neither is grammatically correct. "A positive" typically modifies a noun, so you'd say something like "a positive outcome is" or "positive results are". Consider rephrasing to ensure proper agreement.

What's the difference between "a positive attitude" and "being positive"?

"A positive attitude" refers to a specific mindset or outlook, while "being positive" describes a general state of optimism or a tendency to see the good in things. They're closely related, but the former is more concrete.