All 4 Uses of
positive
in
Moby Dick
- I am, sir, if it should be positively indispensable to do so; not to be got rid of, that is; which I don't take to be the fact.
Chpt 16-18positively = absolutely (used for emphasis)
- But when a man's religion becomes really frantic; when it is a positive torment to him; and, in fine, makes this earth of ours an uncomfortable inn to lodge in; then I think it high time to take that individual aside and argue the point with him.
Chpt 16-18positive = absolute (used for emphasis)
- But as perhaps fifty of these whale-bone whales are harpooned for one cachalot, some philosophers of the forecastle have concluded that this positive havoc has already very seriously diminished their battalions.
Chpt 103-105
- There was some apprehension, but no positive alarm, as yet.
Chpt 127-129 *positive = certain
Definition:
-
(positive as in: I'm absolutely positive!) certain (having no doubt; or used for emphasis)