it is positive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is positive" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means that something has a beneficial or favorable nature or quality. You can use it in a variety of contexts, such as discussing a medical test result, describing a situation or outcome, or stating an opinion. Example: "After conducting thorough research, the doctor concluded that the patient's test results were positive, indicating a successful treatment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is positive to see the sector break its recent sequence of slower growth.

BBC

When it is positive, he says so.

Independent

The Bundesbank reckons it is positive.

The Economist

"There's anticipation but I think it is positive.

The New York Times

It is positive advice Bristol would do well to heed.

The Guardian - Sport

"It is positive for us ahead of the World Cup.

The Guardian - Sport

"A lot of it is positive," she said.

The New York Times - Health

It is positive that all 17 goals remained in the final outcome.

The Guardian

"We think it is positive," said Oswaldo Payá, who led the petition effort.

The New York Times

"It is unregulated, it is a little bit chaotic, but it is positive".

The Guardian

But the book is also good because it is positive, dedicated to seeking solutions.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is positive", ensure the context clearly indicates what the 'it' refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

While acceptable, excessive use of "it is positive" can make writing sound repetitive. Consider using stronger, more descriptive adjectives or verbs to convey the same meaning with greater impact. For instance, instead of "It is positive that the company increased its profits", try "The company's increased profits demonstrate strong financial health."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is positive" functions as a subject complement, providing a description or evaluation of the subject ('it'). As shown in the Ludwig examples, it often follows a linking verb like 'is' to express an opinion or assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is positive" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a favorable opinion or assessment. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While versatile, it's important to ensure clarity regarding the referent of 'it' and avoid overuse in formal writing to maintain impact. Consider using stronger synonyms like "it is beneficial" or "it is advantageous" for greater precision. "It is positive" serves primarily to convey approval and highlight beneficial aspects in a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is advantageous

Emphasizes the benefit or advantage derived from something, shifting focus from general positivity to practical gains.

it is beneficial

Highlights the helpful or useful nature of something, suggesting a more tangible positive effect.

it is favorable

Indicates a promising or auspicious aspect, often related to conditions or opportunities.

it is constructive

Focuses on the building or improving aspect of something, suggesting progress or development.

it is encouraging

Highlights the hopeful or motivating nature of something, providing a boost to morale or confidence.

it is optimistic

Expresses a hopeful outlook or positive expectation, focusing on the belief in a good outcome.

it is a good thing

Uses a more general and informal expression to convey a positive sentiment.

that's a plus

Uses a more colloquial expression to indicate an added benefit or advantage.

it is a step forward

Highlights the progressive nature of something, indicating advancement or improvement.

it bodes well

Suggests a positive omen or indication of a favorable outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is positive" to express a favorable opinion or outcome. For example: "It is positive that the project was completed on time".

What are some alternatives to saying "it is positive"?

Alternatives include "it is beneficial", "it is advantageous", or "it is favorable", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "it is positive" or "that is positive"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "it is positive" is generally used when referring to a specific situation or outcome, while "that is positive" can be used more broadly. The best choice depends on the context.

What does it mean when someone says "it is positive"?

It generally means that something is good, favorable, or has a beneficial effect. The specific meaning depends on the context in which it is used.