WordGarden.iodeclarative
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /dɪklˈærətˌɪv/
US
- /dɪˈklɛr.ə.tɪv/Canadanot-comparableadjective
Meanings
Adjective
used of a sentence or clause that makes a statement
describing a programming style that states the desired result rather than step-by-step commands
serving to state, announce, or make something explicit
More meaningsFewer meanings
relating to explicitly recallable facts or knowledge
Beyond the definition
"Declarative" describes something that makes a clear statement—not a question, command, or exclamation. Think of it like declaring your intentions: you’re saying something plainly and directly. A declarative sentence states a fact or an opinion ("The meeting starts at nine," "I prefer tea"). You can also use it to describe a confident, no-nonsense way of speaking. And in computer programming, it refers to a style where you tell the system what you want, not how to do it—letting the system handle the steps. So, if something is declarative, it focuses on stating what is true, believed, or desired in a clear way.
The word "declarative" has a few different shades of meaning, all revolving around the idea of making clear and definite statements. At its core, "declarative" means expressing something positively and directly—it's about declaring information rather than asking about it or giving an order.
In grammar, a declarative sentence is one that makes a statement: "The sky is blue," "I enjoy reading," or "She lives in Paris." These sentences simply state facts or opinions. They usually end with a period (full stop). You can easily identify them because they aren't questions ("Is the sky blue?") or commands ("Close the door!").
Beyond grammar, "declarative" describes something that is assertive and confident in its expression. A declarative tone of voice leaves no room for doubt.
Interestingly, "declarative" also has a specific meaning in computer science. Declarative programming is a style where you specify what result you want, rather than detailing the exact steps to achieve it. For example, instead of writing code that says "loop through this list and add one to each number," you simply state "I want a new list with each number in the original list incremented by one." The programming language then figures out how to accomplish that task. SQL is an example of a declarative language.
So, whether it's about clear communication, confident expression, or a specific approach to coding, "declarative" always points towards making things explicit and stating them with certainty.
Examples
- 1
Grammar
In English class, we learned that "The train is late" is a declarative sentence, not a question.
- 2
Direct speech
Her speech was brief and declarative, with no attempt to soften the message.
- 3
Writing tone
The article takes a declarative tone, as if the writer expects no disagreement.
- Phrasedeclarative tone
a direct, confident way of stating something
- 4
Programming
This framework lets you build the page in a more declarative way.
- Domain
in programming, declarative means describing the result you want, not every step to get it
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- indicative
- propositional
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- declarative sentence
- declarative clause
Word family
Explore
- sentence mood
- assertion
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- declarativenounadjective
Forms
- declarativespluralnounadjective