positivity
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /pˌɒzɪtˈɪvɪti/
US
- /ˌpɑ.zɪˈtɪv.ɪ.ti/noun
Description
- optimism
- hopefulness
- focus on the good
It isn't just about smiling all the time; it's a way of looking at life with hope and noticing what is good, even when things are hard. Think of a sunflower turning its face toward the sun. That is this quality in action. It can be a choice to look for the bright side, or a natural habit of seeing chances instead of barriers. A hopeful outlook does not mean ignoring problems. It means facing them while still believing that things can improve. People often build it through gratitude, supportive relationships, and kind, steady thoughts.
Positivity is the state or habit of being optimistic and hopeful about life and what may happen next. It is more than a passing happy feeling; it is a general attitude that shapes how you see experiences, deal with other people, and respond to difficulty. Think of a seasoned sailor in a storm - aware of the rough sea, but still trusting their skill and looking for a safe path forward. That is positivity at work.
The idea also reaches beyond personal feelings. It can describe a situation, result, or environment that is helpful or encouraging. A "positive environment" supports growth, care, and well-being. A "positive result" means a good or favorable outcome.
In psychology, positive psychology specifically focuses on studying human strengths and virtues to promote flourishing and happiness. This field emphasizes the importance of cultivating gratitude, resilience, mindfulness, and other positive traits.
However, it is important to note that toxic positivity - pushing constant cheerfulness even during real pain or hardship - can be harmful. True positivity makes room for sadness, stress, and fear while still holding on to hope. It is about balance: seeing reality clearly and choosing to notice what is still good within it.
So, whether you are trying to feel better, create a supportive space, or simply move through life's ups and downs, positivity can be a steady force for good - a sense of hope that helps you keep going.
Examples
- 1
Workplace
I like working with Maya because her positivity makes stressful days easier.
- 2
Team morale
The coach tried to bring some positivity back into the team after the loss.
- 3
Public support
There was a lot of positivity around the new plan.
Pattern
positivity around + idea/plan
positive feeling or support connected with it
- 4
Starting over
He showed real positivity about starting over in a new city.
- 5
Body image
Body positivity has changed the way many brands talk about size and beauty.
Phrase
body positivity
the idea that people should accept and respect different body types
- 6
Emotional pressure
Sometimes "just stay positive" can feel like toxic positivity.
Phrase
toxic positivity
pressure to seem happy even when things are bad
- 7
Public health
Doctors watched the test positivity rate to see how widely the virus was spreading.
Domain
test positivity rate
the percentage of tests that come back positive
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- positivitynoun