adj
descriptive
dih-SKRIHP-tihv
adj
1
Giving a detailed account or picture of something in words.
"Her writing style is highly descriptive, full of colour and detail."
2
In linguistics, recording how language is actually used rather than laying down rules for how it should be used.
"The dictionary takes a descriptive approach, listing words as people actually use them, not how grammarians wish they would."
How to Use Descriptive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFull of detail that paints a picture, or (in language study) reporting real usage rather than dictating rules.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "prescriptive," which means laying down rules for how things should be, rather than describing how they are.
Easily confused with
prescriptive
Word Forms
more descriptive comparative, descriptives plural, most descriptive superlative
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Fill the Gap
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Her writing style is highly _____, full of colour and detail.
Etymology
From Latin descriptivus, "giving a full account," from describere (see "describe").