C1adjectiveformalsciencework
US/riˈæk.tɪv/
UK/riˈæk.tɪv/
responding to events after they happen instead of acting first; or easily causing a chemical reaction
In context
A reactive manager only solves problems after they get serious.
Sodium is highly reactive and must be stored under oil.
Her skin is reactive, so she avoids strong soaps.
Words that go with reactive
adverb + adjective
- highly reactiveFluorine is a highly reactive gas.
- chemically reactiveThe metal is chemically reactive.
adjective + noun
- reactive approachA reactive approach to safety costs more.
- reactive metalPotassium is a very reactive metal.
adjective + preposition
- reactive rather than proactiveThe city has been reactive rather than proactive.
- reactive toThe test is reactive to small changes in light.