-factive
suffix
UKˈfæktɪvUSˈfæktɪv
Denoting something that relates to making or causing something to become a particular way; often used in linguistics and philosophy
Example Sentences
The term 'causative' is similar to the concept conveyed by '-factive,' involving causing an effect.
In linguistics, a factive verb presupposes the truth of its complement clause, such as 'know' in 'He knows she is here.'
The suffix '-factive' is often seen in technical discussions about causation or truth in language.
Certain constructions in philosophy explore factive states of belief and knowledge.
Words like 'putative' contrast with 'factive' because they do not presuppose truth.
The suffix '-factive' helps clarify the effect or causality implied by an action or state.
Languages use factive markers to indicate whether the speaker assumes the truth of a statement.
In epistemology, factivity is a property of knowledge claims, assuming they correspond to reality.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A suffix indicating causation or action resulting in a specific state.The suffix '-factive' is used in linguistic and psychological contexts to describe verbs or concepts that denote actions or statements leading to a specific state or outcome. For instance, 'factitive' verbs indicate a causative action (e.g., 'appoint' in 'She appointed him manager'). It highlights causation and the resulting change or condition brought about by the action described.
Alternatives
Alternatives to '-factive' may involve descriptive phrases like 'causing to be' or using simpler verbs that inherently include causation, such as 'make' or 'render.'
Writing
In academic or technical writing, '-factive' is essential for precise descriptions of causative actions or states. It is commonly employed in linguistics to analyze sentence structures and verb functions.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-factive' is rare and typically replaced with simpler language, such as using phrases like 'causes to be' or straightforward verbs that imply causation.