mutually exclusive

adjective

: being related such that each excludes or precludes the other

mutually exclusive events

also : incompatible

Their outlooks were not mutually exclusive.

Synonyms of mutually exclusive

• inconsistent
• conflicting

Examples of mutually exclusive in a Sentence

the two plans are mutually exclusive; implementing one will automatically rule out the other

Recent Examples on the Web

The experience showed that meaningful property-tax relief and local government services are not mutually exclusive. — Chuck Bonfiglio, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Nov. 2026

Honoring a lost loved one and preserving the celebrations that still bring comfort are not mutually exclusive. — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 30 Oct. 2026

Asked why Aon is investing billions in acquisitions rather than exclusively expanding its technology capabilities, Case said the two are not mutually exclusive. — Contessa Brewer, CNBC, 29 Oct. 2026

Not that those are mutually exclusive, exactly, but first things first. — Kansas City Star, 24 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for mutually exclusive

• abusive
• allusive
• collusive
• conclusive
• conducive
• delusive
• diffusive
• elusive
• extrusive
• illusive
• inclusive
• intrusive