Meaning of the word negative in English

What does negative mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

negative

US /ˈneɡ.ə.t̬ɪv/
UK /ˈneɡ.ə.t̬ɪv/
"negative" picture

Adjective

1.

expressing or implying denial, disagreement, or refusal

Example:
She gave a negative answer to the proposal.
The test results were negative for the virus.
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2.

having a bad or harmful effect

Example:
Smoking has many negative effects on health.
The news had a negative impact on the stock market.
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3.

less than zero; involving a reduction

Example:
The temperature dropped to negative five degrees Celsius.
The company reported negative growth for the quarter.
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Noun

1.

a word or statement that expresses denial, disagreement, or refusal

Example:
He responded with a firm negative.
The vote was 10 for and 5 negative.
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2.

a photographic image on film that shows dark areas as light and light areas as dark

Example:
She developed the film and saw the negative.
The photographer held the negative up to the light.
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