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innovative
/ˈɪnəˌveɪtɪv/
introducing new ideas
The company's innovative approach to sustainability won industry awards.
The company won awards because it introduced new ideas about sustainability.
formal
Featuring or introducing new methods, ideas, or devices; original and creative.
Apple is known for its innovative products like the iPhone.
Apple is recognized for creating original and creative devices such as the iPhone.
The scientist proposed an innovative solution to the energy crisis.
The scientist suggested a new and original way to solve the energy crisis.
Often used in business, technology, and creative fields to describe forward-thinking ideas or products.
Collocations
innovative designa design that introduces new ideasinnovative thinkingcreative problem-solvinginnovative technologynew and advanced technology
Pro Tip
Avoid Overuse
While 'innovative' is a strong adjective, overusing it can make writing sound clichéd. Use it sparingly to emphasize truly original ideas or solutions.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
Ensure the context supports the idea of novelty. For example, 'an innovative recipe' implies a new or unusual way of cooking, not just a tasty one.
Word Origin
From Latin *innovativus*, derived from *innovare* (to renew, alter), combining *in-* (into) + *novare* (to make new), from *novus* (new). First recorded in English in the early 16th century.
Usage Notes
Used to describe people, ideas, products, or approaches that are groundbreaking or ahead of their time. Commonly used in professional and academic contexts to praise forward-thinking efforts.
Word Breakdown
in-
into
prefixnov-
new
root-ative
relating to
suffixEnglish Dictionary