How is proactive used in a sentence?

A proactive approach to customer service can prevent many complaints before they even arise. | The company took proactive steps to reduce costs and increase efficiency in anticipation of the economic downturn. | Being proactive about your health includes regular exercise and a balanced diet, rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

What are the synonyms for proactive?

Synonyms for proactive: anticipatory, forward-thinking, preventive, pre-emptive, initiatory

What are the antonyms for proactive?

Antonyms for proactive: reactive, passive, responsive

Definition of"proactive" in English

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proactive

/ˌproʊˈæktɪv/

Adjective

Definitions

Adjective

Acting in anticipation of future problems, needs, or changes, rather than reacting to them after they occur; taking initiative to control a situation by causing something to happen rather than waiting to respond to it.

🟡Intermediate

Adjective

(Psychology) Of or relating to interference in which previous learning inhibits or disrupts the recall or performance of later learning (often referred to as 'proactive interference').

🔴Advanced

Examples

"A proactive approach to customer service can prevent many complaints before they even arise."
A proactive approach to customer service can prevent many complaints before they even arise.
"The company took proactive steps to reduce costs and increase efficiency in anticipation of the economic downturn."
The company took proactive steps to reduce costs and increase efficiency in anticipation of the economic downturn.
"Being proactive about your health includes regular exercise and a balanced diet, rather than waiting for symptoms to appear."
Being proactive about your health includes regular exercise and a balanced diet, rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Etymology

Coined in the mid-20th century, from 'pro-' (meaning 'before' or 'forward') and 'active'. It implies acting before an event, as opposed to 'reactive' which means acting in response to an event.

Cultural Notes

The concept of 'proactive' behavior is highly valued in modern business management, personal development, and self-help literature, emphasizing foresight, initiative, and taking responsibility for outcomes rather than being a victim of circumstances. The noun 'proactivity' is also commonly used interchangeably with 'proactiveness'.

Frequency:Very Common

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