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

By comparison, non-family businesses are expected to grow by 59% over the same period, demonstrating that long-term thinking and commercial ambition are far from mutually exclusive. — Jack Hayes, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Among the most popular dorm decor ideas is the bed upgrade, proving that college life and comfort aren’t mutually exclusive. — Amelia Mularz, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2026

In the case of Israel Bonds, and much to the disappointment of the BDS movement, support for Israel and sound financial stewardship are not mutually exclusive. — Dr. Andrew M. Hutter, New York Daily News, 14 Aug. 2026

Comfort and polish aren’t mutually exclusive—take note from Avantika Vandanapu. — Alyssa Rotunno, InStyle, 10 Aug. 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