prescriptive

adjective

pri-ˈskrip-tiv How to pronounce prescriptive (audio)
Definition of prescriptivenext
as in traditional
based on customs usually handed down from a previous generation even in this age of e-mail the prescriptive response to a wedding gift is a handwritten thank-you note

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of prescriptive Nilsson’s debut feature is a tender, unflinching portrait of self-performance, identity, and learning to exist as oneself in an often prescriptive world. — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 21 July 2026 Loui Burke has built a following on Instagram around prescriptive bed-making guidelines. — Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 1 July 2026 Tailoring became lighter, proportions relaxed and layering more instinctive, creating wardrobes that feel versatile rather than prescriptive. — Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 29 June 2026 When someone openly and continuously crosses your land for years, that use can gradually become a permanent legal right called a prescriptive easement. — Gary Singer, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for prescriptive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prescriptive
  1. traditional
  2. customary
  3. conventional
Adjective
  • YouTube has been keen to talk up its partnership with the BBC and other British networks during its time in Edinburgh this week, and positioned itself as friend, not foe to the traditional sector.
    — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Perhaps Parton’s most countercultural act was her decision to work and not have children at a time when Reagan’s push for traditional family values took hold of the country.
    — Shima Oliaee, Time, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of traditional
Adjective
  • The deal is subject to approvals of several Jardine Cycle & Carriage’s partners and other customary conditions.
    — Yessar Rosendar, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • The mesmerizing juxtaposition of colors and cultures and sights and sounds from the customary scene was punctuated July 11 by the sixth and final match here, Argentina’s 3-1 victory over Switzerland.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 16 Aug. 2026
Definition of customary
Adjective
  • The platform links brand clients with filmmakers around the world to turn advertising messages into standalone films with real narrative ambition, rather than conventional commercials.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026
  • The technology can support both conventional and remote sites, like areas where traditional energy infrastructure may be difficult or expensive to build.
    — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of conventional

Browse Nearby Words

prescriptions
prescriptive
prescripts
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Cite this Entry

“Prescriptive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prescriptive. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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