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emotive

C2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ɪmˈəʊtɪv/

US

  • /ˈiˌmoʊtɪv/
  • /ɪˈmoʊtɪv/

Description

Something emotive is not just about facts. It makes you feel something strongly. Think of a photograph that makes you feel sad or happy right away, or a song that gives you chills. The word describes things that bring out strong feelings, such as art, music, writing, or even the tone of someone's voice. A powerful speech can be very emotive because it tries to connect with people through feeling, not just information. While a plain news report gives the facts, a more emotive documentary shows the human side of a story and makes the situation feel more real.

Examples

  1. 1

    Film scene

    The film's final scene is highly emotive.

  2. 2

    Persuasive language

    The article uses emotive language instead of clear evidence.

    • Phrase

      emotive language

      words chosen to create strong feelings

  3. 3

    Sensitive topic

    It's an emotive topic, so discussions about it can get tense.

  4. 4

    Legal language

    The judge told the lawyers to avoid emotive terms and stick to the facts.

  5. 5

    Practical argument

    She tried to make her argument less emotive and more practical.

See also

adjectiveexpressing or arousing strong emotion

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Do not confuse

Used with (collocations)

  • emotive language
  • emotive issue
  • highly emotive
  • emotive appeal

Word family

Explore

  • pathos
  • loaded language

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • emotiveadjective