constructive terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "constructive terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing language or phrases that are positive, helpful, or aimed at building something beneficial in a conversation or context. Example: "In our meeting, we should focus on constructive terms to foster a collaborative atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

There is a growing body of research that children who are praised too early and too easily end up under-performing peers who are not praised but are told, in constructive terms, they can do better.

TechCrunch

If the culture of care is positive rather than defensive and focused on therapeutic goals and patient/service-user well-being then complaints processes will be views in constructive terms.

BMC Nursing

Abstinence was the treatment goal; general practitioners (GPs) were to be contacted for withdrawal medication and couples were: … told that responsibility for attainment of the stated goals lay in their own hands rather than it being anything which could be taken over by others, and this message was given in sympathetic and constructive terms.

Addiction

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A few eyebrows arched: this non-plan sounded rather feckless and certainly not constructive in terms of standard gap year values.

The Guardian - Travel

"It's been a pressure that has been constructive, in terms of strengthening and broadening the scope of what you have to offer".

The New York Times

Newell added: "We're delighted that Michael has agreed to join us and the meetings that we've had with him have been very constructive in terms of our respective ambitions and the role he sees himself playing in fulfilling them".

BBC

They further elaborated that feedback on their presentations needed to be constructive in terms of "direction on how you might improve if you need to" or "this area needs to be, like toughened up, changed or altered" (Participant 2).

BMC Geriatrics

"Brazil faces a big competitive challenge, and the relationship with China only dramatises that," says Sérgio Amaral, a former industry minister who chairs the Brazil-China Business Council.The government's response is a mix of short-term protectionist measures combined with modest steps towards more constructive longer-term policy changes.

The Economist

Mr Blair said that "sustained investment and a constructive long-term partnership between the public and private sectors" were needed.

The Guardian

Having a constructive, long-term relationship means that we will acknowledge our disagreements honestly and stand committed to work toward solutions together.

The New York Times

Yes, China is rising; but, surprise, so is America — and given the deep economic interdependence that both governments acknowledge, that's a recipe for a more constructive longer-term relationship.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing feedback, prioritize using "constructive terms" to foster improvement and maintain a positive working relationship.

Common error

Ensure your "constructive terms" are specific and actionable. Generic positivity without clear direction can be misinterpreted and ineffective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constructive terms" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where 'constructive' modifies 'terms'. According to Ludwig AI, it denotes language that is positive and designed to build or improve a situation. This is visible in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "constructive terms" is a grammatically sound and usable expression denoting positive and helpful language. According to Ludwig AI, it’s used to foster collaboration and provide well-received feedback. While relatively rare, its application spans across news, scientific, and professional contexts, indicating its versatility. Remember to utilize "constructive terms" to build positive communication environments and provide actionable feedback, ensuring the language used contributes to progress rather than conflict.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

helpful language

Focuses on the helpful aspect of the terms used, omitting the 'building' connotation.

positive wording

Highlights the positive nature of the wording used, rather than its proactive quality.

beneficial phrasing

Emphasizes the advantageous character of the phrasing, not necessarily the building aspect.

productive vocabulary

Stresses the output or results of the vocabulary used, shifting focus slightly.

advantageous terminology

Highlights the favorable nature of the terminology, rather than its role in building something.

useful expressions

Focuses on the utility of the expressions, rather than their proactive nature.

valuable language

Highlights the worth of the language used, shifting the emphasis.

practical expressions

Emphasizes the practicality of the expressions rather than their building capability.

supportive words

Focuses on the encouraging aspect of the words, omitting proactive development.

positive communication

Broadens the scope to the entire act of communication, not just the terms used.

FAQs

How can I use "constructive terms" in a performance review?

Instead of saying "needs improvement", try phrasing it using "specific feedback" with actionable steps, such as "focus on enhancing time management skills by utilizing project management tools".

What are some examples of "constructive terms" in a negotiation?

In a negotiation, "constructive terms" might include phrases like "exploring mutually beneficial solutions" or "identifying areas of agreement" rather than confrontational language.

Is it better to use "constructive terms" rather than direct criticism?

While directness can be valuable, using "constructive terms" helps frame feedback in a positive light, encouraging receptiveness and collaboration. Consider your audience and context.

How do "constructive terms" differ from simply being nice?

"Constructive terms" aim to improve or build upon something, not just to be polite. They include "actionable suggestions" and a focus on solutions, distinguishing them from mere flattery or empty praise.