constructive activity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "constructive activity" is a valid and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to an activity or action that is beneficial, productive or helpful in some way. You can use "constructive activity" when describing someone's actions or behavior, or when discussing a particular task or project. For example: - The group engaged in a series of constructive activities aimed at improving community relations. - Playing an instrument has been shown to be a constructive activity for children's development. - Engaging in constructive activities such as volunteering can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose. - During the team meeting, we brainstormed ideas and discussed potential constructive activities for the upcoming charity event.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Current law requires 30 hours of constructive activity, including at least 20 hours of actual work.

The New York Times

If that consideration could suspend [OA] initiatives, then it could suspend all constructive activity.

Harvard University

Accommodation blocks are being thrown up across the country without, in most instances, accompanying provision for constructive activity.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Constructive activity in the secular community," the task force said, "is not an 'extra' for priests in parishes, but an essential part of their ministry".

The New York Times

Most people who live and work in prisons would agree that there is far too little constructive activity and far too few education and workshop places.

The Guardian - Opinion

Just locking people up for months or years with little constructive activity to keep them occupied serves little purpose beyond giving the outside community a measure of respite.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

In about 1930, weary of nihilism and destruction, he joined his friends in the more constructive activities of Surrealism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Guaranteed childcare and constructive activities before and after school in term time between 8am and 6pm, and a decision on universal school meals by 2012.

The Guardian

We need to talk about families and parenting, after-school initiatives and constructive activities for young people – and if it does go wrong, effective programmes for young offenders.

The Guardian - Opinion

The administration's plan would require welfare recipients to work at least 24 hours a week, with 16 more hours in training or education or other "constructive activities".

The New York Times

Instead they opted for better parental supervision of young people, more constructive activities for the young and improved drug treatment and mental healthcare for those who need it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "constructive activity" when you want to emphasize the beneficial and productive nature of an action. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While generally appropriate, avoid using "constructive activity" excessively in very casual settings. Opt for simpler terms like "helpful actions" or "good deeds" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constructive activity" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes an activity (noun) with a positive attribute (adjective). It is a general term to characterize actions that have value and purpose. Ludwig highlights examples across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "constructive activity" is a valid and frequently used phrase signifying a beneficial and productive action. As Ludwig points out, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and formal business communications. While versatile, it's advisable to use simpler alternatives in very casual settings. The phrase is employed to emphasize the positive impact of an action, making it a valuable term for highlighting progress and improvement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

productive endeavor

Focuses on the outcome and usefulness of the activity.

beneficial pursuit

Highlights the positive impact or advantage gained from the activity.

positive engagement

Emphasizes active participation with a favorable outcome.

fruitful undertaking

Stresses the successful and rewarding nature of the activity.

worthwhile task

Implies the activity is valuable and deserving of effort.

purposeful action

Underscores the intention and goal-oriented nature of the activity.

helpful exercise

Suggests the activity is practical and advantageous.

useful work

Highlights the practical application and benefit of the activity.

valuable contribution

Emphasizes the positive impact and significance of the activity.

meaningful involvement

Focuses on the depth and significance of participation in the activity.

FAQs

How can I use "constructive activity" in a sentence?

You can use "constructive activity" to describe any action that is productive and beneficial. For example, "Volunteering at the local shelter is a "constructive activity" that benefits the community."

What are some alternatives to "constructive activity"?

Alternatives include "productive endeavor", "beneficial pursuit", or "positive engagement" depending on the context.

Is "constructive activity" formal or informal?

"Constructive activity" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's best suited for situations where you want to emphasize the positive and purposeful nature of the action. In very casual conversation, simpler terms might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "constructive activity" and "activity"?

While "activity" simply refers to any action or pursuit, "constructive activity" specifically implies that the action is beneficial, productive, and contributes positively to a particular goal or outcome. It emphasizes the positive impact of the action.