informative
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪnfˈɔːmətˌɪv/
US
- /ˌɪnˈfɔrmətɪv/
Description
- full of useful information
- educational
- enlightening
Something informative gives you facts and details that help you understand something better. A good documentary is informative because it teaches you about a topic. Think of an informative conversation as one where you actually learn something new, not just hear opinions. News reports often try to be informative by clearly explaining what happened. An informative speech does not just entertain; it helps you know more than before.
The word informative describes anything that provides useful or important information. It goes beyond simply stating facts; truly informative content helps you gain understanding and learn something new. Think of a well-researched article, a detailed museum exhibit, or a thoughtful conversation with an expert – these are all examples of things that can be highly informative.
The context matters! While a novel might be engaging or entertaining, it isn't necessarily informative. However, a historical fiction novel could be both! Similarly, a casual chat with a friend is unlikely to be deeply informative, but a lecture from a professor certainly would be.
You'll often see "informative" used to describe things like reports ("The report was highly informative"), presentations ("She gave an informative presentation on climate change"), or websites ("This website is a great source of informative articles"). It often suggests clarity and usefulness: the information presented is not just plentiful, but also helpful and fairly easy to understand.
So, if something leaves you feeling more knowledgeable than before, chances are it was wonderfully informative.
Examples
- 1
Brochure
The brochure is short but informative.
- 2
Presentation
Her talk was informative and easy to follow.
- 3
Website
I found the website informative, especially the section for first-time visitors.
- 4
Subject focus
The article is informative about the history of the neighborhood.
Pattern
informative about + subject
giving useful details on that subject
- 5
Comparison
This summary is less detailed, but it's more informative than the original email.
- 6
Explanation
Thanks for the explanation. It was really informative.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- informativeadjective