productive

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "productive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that produces a lot of things, results, or ideas. For example, "John is a productive member of the team, always coming up with creative solutions to problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Austerity, poverty and exclusion risk robbing an entire generation of healthy, productive lives across a continent that undervalues the benefits of universal healthcare.

The Guardian

This is not socially admirable or economically productive".

The Guardian

Long productive lives are not necessarily a boon to artists – think of Kokoschka or André Derain, for example.

The Guardian - Arts

Tired people are less productive and struggle to concentrate, and you no longer get to drink free coffee.

The Guardian

It has become the continent's productive powerhouse by rigging all economic relationships in its favour.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is because those three systems did not work that Britain was plunged into crisis on such a scale, with a vast overhang of private debt and too little productive capacity.

The Guardian - Opinion

A massive onshore windfarm on Shetland which is expected to be one of the most productive in the world has been cleared to go ahead after a final legal challenge failed.

The Guardian

The obvious questions are then a) how can we make low-earners more productive, and also b) how can we improve education?

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

As an environmentalist, and someone who believes that everyone in this world has a right to a healthy and nutritious diet of their choosing, I could not have chosen a more counter-productive path.

The New York Times

It may be that sanctions against Mugabe and his allies have run their course and become counter-productive, gifting Zanu-PF propaganda and excuses.

The Guardian

Retail analyst Nick Bubb said: "Maybe Mike realised that he would end up getting too much and would thus squeeze out the staff, which would be counter-productive.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In professional contexts, use "productive" to describe meetings, discussions, or collaborations that lead to tangible results or progress.

Common error

Avoid using "productive" when you actually mean simply "busy". Being "productive" implies achieving meaningful results, not just filling time with activities.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "productive" primarily functions to describe nouns, indicating the ability to yield significant results or outputs. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples confirms its role in modifying nouns related to people, periods, activities, and resources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "productive" is a versatile adjective used to describe anything that yields significant results or outputs. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and very common across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Formal & Business settings. To enhance your writing, remember that being "productive" is not just about being busy; it's about achieving meaningful outcomes. Consider using alternatives like "fruitful" or "efficient" to add nuance. By avoiding the common error of equating "productive" with simply being occupied, you can use this term effectively to convey the true value of effort and investment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fruitful

Emphasizes the positive results and outcomes achieved.

efficient

Highlights the ability to achieve results without wasting resources.

effective

Focuses on achieving the desired outcome or having a strong impact.

constructive

Indicates a positive and helpful contribution to a process or situation.

fertile

Implies the capability of generating or creating something new, often used metaphorically.

prolific

Suggests a high rate of output or creation.

high-yielding

Focuses on the quantity of output in relation to input.

resourceful

Highlights the ability to find creative and practical ways to overcome challenges and be productive.

operative

Emphasizes the functional and working aspect of being productive.

creative

Underlines the innovative and original aspect of productivity.

FAQs

How can I use "productive" in a sentence?

You can use "productive" to describe activities, people, or periods that yield significant results. For instance, "She had a very productive day at work" or "Investing in education is a productive use of resources".

What are some synonyms for "productive"?

Alternatives to "productive" include "fruitful", "efficient", and "effective", each carrying slightly different nuances.

Which is correct: "productive" or "proactive"?

"Productive" refers to achieving results, while "proactive" means taking initiative to prevent problems or create opportunities. Choose the word that best fits the context.

What's the difference between "productive" and "busy"?

"Busy" implies being engaged in many activities, but "productive" implies achieving meaningful outcomes or results. You can be busy without being productive, and vice versa.