on the positive note

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the positive note" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the positive outcome of a situation or shift the conversation away from a negative topic. For example: "Although the team did not win the game, on the positive note, they gained valuable experience that they can take forward into their next match."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

On the positive note, many other LNG export facilities ae being built elsewhere in the country, with the newest Cove Point terminal due to open on Maryland's coast this year.

Yale University

On the positive note, a literacy rate is consistently high in all these countries as a result of universal education policy during the socialist regime.

Global Health Action

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Right now we are building on the positive notes that have come out recently".

The New York Times

Gambling executives try to keep the emphasis on the positive, noting that losing tickets mean a lot of money for good causes, like poor schools and health clinics, as well as tax revenues for struggling governments.

The New York Times

On the positive, note-passing has never been so cool.

Vice

But the Italy manager, Cesare Prandelli, preferred to focus on the positives, noting that Balotelli had demanded to take the first penalty.

The Guardian - Sport

The movie ends on a positive note.

Huffington Post

Still, the Red Storm ended the season on a positive note, winning the National Invitation Tournament.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Corso said he expected to end the season on a positive note, as the resort received new snow in the first week in March.

The New York Times

Always end the meeting on a positive note and wish the departing employee the best in their new endeavors.

Forbes

But the story ends on a positive note: the influence of Amelia Bloomer is implied in a blithe illustration showing contemporary young women in bluejeans and bell-bottoms.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the positive note", ensure that the positive aspect you are introducing is genuinely relevant and provides valuable insight, not just a superficial gloss over the negative.

Common error

Avoid using "on the positive note" too frequently within a short span of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound formulaic and diminish the impact of your positive points. Vary your transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the positive note" functions as a transitional phrase. It serves to introduce a more optimistic or favorable element into a discussion, often after acknowledging challenges or negative aspects. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the positive note" serves as a transitional phrase used to introduce an optimistic point following a discussion of negative aspects. Ludwig AI confirms that this expression is considered grammatically correct and useful in written English. It is employed to shift focus towards solutions and create balance in tone, primarily in news, scientific, and formal contexts. While considered to have a neutral register, its use is relatively uncommon. When employing this phrase, it's important to avoid overuse and guarantee relevance to the positive aspect one is bringing to light.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a bright note

Substitutes "positive" with "bright", implying a sense of cheerfulness and optimism.

on the upside

Focuses on the beneficial aspects or advantages of a situation, often used in business or economic contexts.

looking at the positive side

Emphasizes the act of deliberately considering the favorable aspects of a situation.

on a more encouraging note

Replaces "positive" with "encouraging", highlighting aspects that inspire hope and confidence.

to look on the bright side

An idiomatic expression meaning to find good things in a bad situation.

on a hopeful note

Suggests optimism about the future.

in a positive light

Emphasizes showing something favorably or advantageously.

from a positive perspective

Highlights a specific point of view that emphasizes positive aspects.

on the plus side

A more informal way to point out advantages.

in a more favorable light

Similar to "in a positive light", but can also refer to making someone or something seem more attractive.

FAQs

How can I use "on the positive note" in a sentence?

You can use "on the positive note" to introduce a more favorable aspect of a situation after discussing negative points. For example, "The project faced several delays; however, "on the positive note", the team gained valuable experience."

What are some alternatives to "on the positive note"?

Alternatives include "on the upside", "looking at the positive side", or "on a bright note". These phrases similarly introduce a more optimistic aspect or outcome.

Is it always appropriate to use "on the positive note"?

While generally appropriate, consider the context. In situations where focusing on positive aspects might seem insensitive or dismissive of serious concerns, it's better to use a more empathetic or cautious approach. Ensure your positive points are genuinely relevant and helpful.

What's the difference between "on a positive note" and "on the positive note"?

"On a positive note" is more frequently used and can imply a general shift towards optimism. "On the positive note" directs attention to a specific positive aspect within a broader context. Though subtle, the article can change the nuance of the expression. In the end, they're interchangeable.