constructively, adv.
(kənˈstrʌktɪvlɪ)
[f. prec. + -ly2.]
In a constructive way.
1. In the effort to construct; for the purpose of construction; constructionally.
| 1865 J. Fergusson Hist. Arch. I. 171 The Assyrians never seem to have used stone constructively, except as the revetment of a terrace wall. 1874 ― in Contemp. Rev. Oct. 758 [They] have lined..the passages of our houses with..brick-work, because it was constructively true. |
2. By way of interpretation; inferentially.
| 1678 Hale Hist. Placit. Cor. xiv. (T.), Interpretatively and constructively; as, when a war is levied, to throw down inclosures generally, etc. 1706 De Foe Jure Div. v. 14 This is constructively included in Samuel's Behaviour to them, tho' not litterally in the Words. 1769 Blackstone Comm. IV. 142 An actual breach of the peace; or constructively so, by tending to make others break it. 1847 C. G. Addison Law Contracts ii. ii. §2 That the goods were either actually or constructively bailed to him or his servants. |