descriptive

[dih-skrip-tiv] / dɪˈskrɪp tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

explanatory

Synonyms

STRONGEST

definitive detailed eloquent expressive identifying illuminating pictorial revealing vivid

WEAK

anecdotic characteristic characterizing circumstantial classificatory clear delineative depictive describing designating explicative expository extended graphic illuminative illustrative indicative interpretive lifelike narrative particularized picturesque specific true to life

Antonyms

STRONGEST

dull

WEAK

confusing cursory undescriptive

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Importantly, these behavioral differences were predictive, not just descriptive.

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

So he wrote another draft that was 50% longer and more descriptive.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 2, 2026

Skilled descriptive touches conjure the textures of the scene.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

Easily accessible generative artificial intelligence tools, such as Google's Veo and OpenAI's Sora, enable the creation of realistic imagery using just a few descriptive words.

From Barron's • Jan. 29, 2026

Wilkerson ends a richly descriptive introductory chapter with a paragraph composed of exactly two syllables.

From "The Sense of Style" by Steven Pinker

Vocabulary lists containing descriptive

Expository Writing, List 1

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Achievement First 5th Grade IA 1 Words

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STAAR English II: Composition, Revision, and Editing

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