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Grammar fix

negative attitude

unhelpful way of thinking

A negative attitude is when someone usually expects bad things to happen or focuses on problems instead of solutions.

collocationB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • If you have a negative attitude, it can be hard to enjoy new experiences.daily life
  • In my opinion, having a negative attitude at work can affect not only your own performance but also your colleagues.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: have/show/develop a negative attitude (towards something)

WrongDon't be so negativity.

RightDon't be so negative.

'Negative' is the adjective; 'negativity' is the noun (all the negativity).

Patternhave/show/develop a negative attitude (towards something)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff He maintains a consistently pessimistic disposition.

Natural He's got such a negative attitude.

'Pessimistic disposition' is clinical; 'negative attitude' is the everyday pairing.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • a negative attitude
    a negative attitudetowardshavesuch a

Don't confuse it

Contrast with 'positive attitude,' which means focusing on good outcomes and solutions.

Try it in Daily Speak →