innovative
gb/ˈɪnəvˌeɪtɪv/ us/ˈɪnəvˌeɪtɪv/
B2
English
~ 4100
Senses
0 senses
adjective
B2
property
1
Introducing new and creative ideas
Using new and creative ideas or ways of doing things.
Usage pattern:
[someone/something] is innovative
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'innovative' with 'inventive'. 'Innovative' often refers to applying new ideas in practice, while 'inventive' can mean simply having a talent for creating or imagining things.
Synonyms
creative (Emphasizes imagination and originality, but not always practical application.)
|
groundbreaking (Highlights being the first of its kind or highly influential.)
Antonyms
traditional (Focuses on established methods or customs rather than new ideas.)
|
conventional (Implies following usual standards or practices without change.)
Collocations
innovative solution
|innovative design
|innovative technology
|innovative approach
|innovative idea
Themes
business
|technology
|creativity
|design
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The company is known for its innovative approach to renewable energy.
- She developed an innovative method for teaching math to young children.
- This smartphone features several innovative design elements.
- Innovative thinking is essential for staying competitive in the tech industry.
Learner examples
- The school has an innovative way to teach reading.
- He made an innovative tool to help farmers.
- This car has an innovative design.
- Her idea for the app was very innovative.
Grammar
Dictionary form
innovative
IPA
GB/ˈɪnəvˌeɪtɪv/
US/ˈɪnəvˌeɪtɪv/
Syllables & stress
in - nov - at - ive (4 syllables)
Stress on 1st syllable (in)
Word forms
Adjective
- Base: innovative
Word family
Core family
Negative and opposite forms
uninnovative
adjective
Expressions
innovative approach
1/ˈɪnəvˌeɪtɪv əpɹˈoʊt͡ʃ/
fixed phrase
A new and original way of doing something
A new and creative way to do something.
Examples
- They used an innovative approach to reduce waste in the factory.
- Her innovative approach to marketing increased sales.
innovative thinking
1/ˈɪnəvˌeɪtɪv θˈɪŋkɪŋ/
fixed phrase
Creative and original thinking
Thinking in a new and creative way to solve problems or make things better.
Examples
- Innovative thinking helped the team solve the problem quickly.
- The company encourages innovative thinking among its employees.