negativo
“negativo” means “negative” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
negative, unfavorable
Also: pessimistic, bad
📝 In Action
Su actitud es muy negativa cuando hablamos de trabajo.
A2His attitude is very negative when we talk about work.
La respuesta a mi solicitud fue negativa.
B1The answer to my application was negative (a rejection).
El impacto ambiental del proyecto es negativo.
B2The environmental impact of the project is unfavorable.
negative
Also: minus
📝 In Action
Necesitas sumar un número negativo para obtener ese resultado.
B1You need to add a negative number to get that result.
La prueba de COVID dio negativa.
B2The COVID test came back negative.
negative
📝 In Action
El fotógrafo guardó todos los negativos en una caja.
B2The photographer stored all the negatives in a box.
Este negativo está dañado, no podremos imprimir la foto.
C1This negative is damaged; we won't be able to print the photo.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: negativo
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'negativa' correctly?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin word *negativus*, which is related to *negare* (to deny or say no). It has meant the opposite of 'positive' or 'affirmative' for centuries.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know whether to use 'negativo' or 'negativa'?
'Negativo' is an adjective, so it must change its ending to match the gender of the person or thing it describes. If the thing is masculine (like 'el resultado'), use 'negativo'. If it is feminine (like 'la actitud'), use 'negativa'.
Can I use 'negativo' to mean 'bad' or 'harmful'?
Yes, absolutely! It is very common to use it in this sense, especially when discussing effects or consequences. For example, 'un efecto negativo' (a harmful effect).