constructive
UK: kənˈstrʌktɪv | US: kənˈstrʌktɪv
adj. having a positive or useful purpose; intended to help or improve
adj. relating to or derived from construction or building
adj. (law) inferred or implied by legal interpretation
The word "constructive" traces back to Latin constructus (past participle of construere, "to pile together, build"), combining con- (intensive prefix meaning "together") and struere ("to pile, arrange"). The suffix -ive was added in Late Middle English to form an adjective indicating "tending to" or "capable of." Over time, the meaning expanded metaphorically from physical construction ("building") to abstract concepts like "helpful" or "inferred by interpretation."
She offered constructive feedback to improve the project.
The meeting was productive and constructive.
His criticism was harsh but ultimately constructive.
The court made a constructive ruling based on the evidence.
Teamwork requires a constructive attitude from all members.