The word 'electronegative' refers to an attraction that atoms have for electrons in a bond. Highly electronegative atoms (like oxygen) attract electrons strongly. The more strongly you attract electrons the greater amount of an inductive effect you can create. When referring to the inductive effect, the word 'positive' means you create more of an effect. It's just a question of terminology.
It's like basketball versus golf. The more points in basketball wins, but the less "points" in golf wins.
It's like basketball versus golf. The more points in basketball wins, but the less "points" in golf wins.