February 5, 2014　=========
☆ constructive　前向きな
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A comment or discussion that is constructive is useful and helpful rather than negative. I think a good way to remember this word is to think about the main part of the word, “construct”. If you “construct” something, you are building or making it. If you think about it, it is very difficult to build or create something when everything you are hearing is negative. However, if you are feeling positive, or hearing positive messages you are much more likely to be able to create or build something.
This is why, in the office, when we give feedback to an employee, or when a teacher gives feedback to a student, we say it’s best to give “constructive criticism”. Just “criticism” is very negative, and usually not helpful. However, constructive criticism is positive, and helping them to build or create something from the advice.
Hope that helps! Remember, you can use this kind of idea to create a stronger memory of new words, by finding out the deeper meaning or story behind the word.
Bye,
Chris