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.

Steven was very descriptive about the shot or angle he needed.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

Readers of “The Marble Faun” will find Hawthorne at the height of his descriptive abilities, particularly in his accounts of Roman masterworks, which qualify as artworks themselves.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

By quantifying that threshold, ALFA-K turns genome doubling from a descriptive observation into a predictable evolutionary event.

From Science Daily • Jan. 26, 2026

It’s time to look beyond the alphabet for something more descriptive.

From Barron's • Dec. 4, 2025

She searched in her mind for the right descriptive word.

From "Son" by Lois Lowry

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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