Meaning
This word describes a negative, passive, or pessimistic attitude or approach to life and situations. It refers to someone who lacks enthusiasm, initiative, or hope, and often reacts to circumstances with withdrawal or inaction rather than proactive engagement.
Usage
Commonly used to criticize someone's attitude or approach as lacking energy or optimism. Often paired with 态度 (tàidu, attitude) or 情绪 (qíngxù, mood/emotion). The opposite quality, 积极 (jījí), is much more valued in Chinese culture, so calling someone 消极 is generally negative.
Examples
- 01他最近工作态度很消极，总是抱怨。, .His work attitude has been very negative recently; he's always complaining.
- 02我们不能用消极的方式面对困难。.We cannot face difficulties in a negative way.
Characters
Common collocations
- 消极态度negative attitude
- 消极情绪negative emotions
- 消极影响negative influence/impact
- 态度消极to have a negative attitude
Antonyms
Origin
The character 消 means to eliminate or diminish, while 极 means extreme or pole. Together they suggest an extreme state of diminishment or negativity, contrasting with 积极 (active/positive) where 积 means to accumulate.