Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Missive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

📜
Add to dictionary

missive

[ˈmɪsɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

formal communication

A letter or other written communication.

Synonyms

communication, letter, note.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
missive

A missive is often used to describe a long or official letter, typically one written with a formal tone. It has a somewhat archaic or literary feel.

  • The ambassador sent a detailed missive to the king, outlining the terms of the treaty.
  • She found an old missive tucked away in the attic, revealing secrets from the past.
letter

A letter specifically refers to a written or printed message sent from one person to another, typically through the postal system. It can be formal or informal.

  • I received a letter from my friend who lives abroad.
  • The bank sent a formal letter requesting the repayment of the loan.
communication

Communication is a broad term that refers to the exchange of information, ideas, or messages. It can include verbal, written, or electronic forms and is not limited to letters.

  • Effective communication is key to maintaining strong relationships in the workplace.
  • The company's communication strategy includes newsletters, emails, and social media updates.
note

A note is usually a short, informal message. It can be written on paper or electronically and is often used for quick communication.

  • She left a note on the fridge reminding her roommate to buy milk.
  • During the meeting, he took notes to remember the key points discussed.

Examples of usage

  • He received a missive from the president.
  • She eagerly opened the missive from her long-lost friend.
  • The missive contained important information about the upcoming event.
Context #2 | Noun

formal written message

A formal message, often long or official.

Synonyms

communication, dispatch, message.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
missive

Used in formal or literary contexts, often to describe a long and detailed letter.

  • He sent a tear-stained missive to his beloved, pouring out his heart.
  • Their exchange of missives continued throughout the year, each letter eagerly awaited.
message

Commonly used in everyday language, referring to any form of written or spoken communication; it is the most general and flexible term.

  • I left you a message on your phone.
  • She received a message from her friend asking to meet up.
communication

A broad term used in both formal and informal contexts to refer to any form of information exchange, including letters, emails, calls, or face-to-face conversations.

  • Effective communication is key in maintaining healthy relationships.
  • The military base maintained open lines of communication at all times.
dispatch

Often used in military, official, or journalistic contexts, referring to the sending of official reports or urgent messages.

  • The general received a dispatch with the latest intelligence.
  • Reporters sent dispatches from the front lines of the conflict.

Examples of usage

  • The missive from the company outlined the new policies.
  • The diplomatic missive was carefully crafted to avoid misunderstandings.
  • She penned a heartfelt missive to her family.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'missive'

The word 'missive' originated from the Latin word 'missivus', meaning 'sent'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to refer to a written message or letter. Over the years, 'missive' has retained its formal and official connotations, often used in diplomatic or corporate contexts.

See also: dismiss, miss, missed, misses, missile, mission, remiss.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,143, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.