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declarative

/dəˈklɛrədɪv/
/dɪˈklɛrətɪv/
IPA guide

Other forms: declaratively

A declarative sentence states a fact. This word can be used to describe any action or speech that makes a statement.

"I love the Red Sox!" is a declarative sentence — you're claiming or asserting something. Declarative sentences are the opposite of questions. Known as a "mood" in the grammar world, you can also use declarative to describe other things that make a definite statement. A strongly worded political sign could be declarative. A tone of voice could be confident and declarative. Even a bold outfit could be declarative of your unique style.

Definitions of declarative
  1. adjective
    relating to the use of or having the nature of a declaration
    synonyms: asserting, declaratory
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    antonyms:
    interrogative
    relating to the use of or having the nature of an interrogation
  2. noun
    a mood (grammatically unmarked) that represents the act or state as an objective fact
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    type of:
    modality, mode, mood
    verb inflections that express how the action or state is conceived by the speaker
  3. adjective
    relating to the mood of verbs that is used simple in declarative statements
    synonyms: indicative
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DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘declarative'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
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