B1 formal 5K

Qualitative

UK //kwɒlɪˈteɪtɪv// US //kwɑləˈteɪtɪv// Pronunciation

Definition

Related to characteristics or qualities rather than quantity.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Related to qualities or characteristics.

Examples

• The qualitative analysis provided deep insights into customer behavior.
• She prefers qualitative research methods for understanding social issues.
• We need a qualitative review of the project outcomes.

Usage notes

Use in academic or professional contexts to discuss characteristics rather than quantities. Avoid in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

qualitative + noun

Memory hint

Remember 'quality' in 'qualitative'—imagine checking the quality of a product.

Collocations

• qualitative research
• qualitative data
• qualitative analysis

Synonyms

• descriptive
• characteristic
• subjective
• non-numerical

Antonyms

• quantitative

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'quantitative', which refers to numbers.
• Using in informal settings where simpler words work better.