di·rec·tive
də-ˈrek-tiv 
dī-
1
: serving or intended to guide, govern, or influence
a directive method
2
: serving to point direction
3
psychology
: of or relating to psychotherapy or counseling in which the counselor introduces information, content, or attitudes not previously expressed by the client
Synonyms
Examples of directive in a Sentence
Noun
They received a written directive instructing them to develop new security measures.
the company president regularly issues directives intended for all staff members
Recent Examples on the Web
Andriana Eliadis, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024
In urgent situations, coaching may need to be complemented by more directive styles to ensure swift decisions are made and immediate challenges are addressed effectively.
—Andriana Eliadis, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024
David Zipper, Vox, 13 Nov. 2024
The Piano Lesson employs dialogue as a dynamic tool while managing to move viewers without a clear directive or resolution for the Charles family.
—Malik William, Essence, 4 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for directive 
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Adjective
Leaders should gauge the urgency and consider combining this style with a more directive approach when necessary.
—Andriana Eliadis, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024
In urgent situations, coaching may need to be complemented by more directive styles to ensure swift decisions are made and immediate challenges are addressed effectively.
—Andriana Eliadis, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024
Noun
When Americans went on a car-buying binge after World War II, states like Michigan widened their highways with the goal of keeping traffic moving quickly, a prime directive for engineers.
—David Zipper, Vox, 13 Nov. 2024
The Piano Lesson employs dialogue as a dynamic tool while managing to move viewers without a clear directive or resolution for the Charles family.
—Malik William, Essence, 4 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for directive
Dictionary Entries Near directive
Cite this Entry
“Directive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/directive. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
directive
adjective
di·rec·tive
də-ˈrek-tiv, dī-
: of or relating to psychotherapy in which the therapist introduces information, content, or attitudes not previously expressed by the client
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