C2adjectivehealthpsychology
US/dɪˈpres.ɪv/
UK/dɪˈpres.ɪv/
relating to the illness of depression, or often feeling very sad and hopeless
In context
He was diagnosed with a depressive illness after months of poor sleep and low mood.
Regular exercise can reduce depressive symptoms in teenagers and adults.
After losing her job, she went through a long depressive episode.
Words that go with depressive
adjective + noun
- depressive symptomsPoor sleep is closely linked to depressive symptoms in students.
- depressive disorderMajor depressive disorder affects millions of people around the world.
- depressive episodeTalking therapy can help prevent another depressive episode.
- depressive illnessMany people with a depressive illness never ask a doctor for help.
- depressive stateThe long rainy season put him in a depressive state.
- depressive thoughtsWriting in a journal helped her notice depressive thoughts early.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I feel very depressive today.Correct: I feel very depressed today.