Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

descriptivist

noun

/dɪˈskrɪp.tɪ.vɪst/

Definition

A person who supports or follows descriptivism, typically in the context of linguistics or grammar.

Examples

A descriptivist approach to grammar focuses on how people actually speak and write.
Many linguists consider themselves descriptivists, emphasizing observation over prescriptive rules.

Meaning

Descriptivists believe that the meaning and usage of language should be described as it is used in everyday communication rather than prescribing rules that dictate how language should be used.