Definition of selectivenext
as in particular
tending to select carefully we were highly selective about the music we listened to while trying out loudspeakers

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of selective Ames Lab researchers will work to design a heat-stable, efficient resin that is selective for gallium. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 6 June 2026 The large transfer of public funds to more privatized schooling options such as charters occurred despite limited evidence of improved performance by charters, selective enrollment policies and ongoing concerns about their use of public funds. Julia McWilliams, The Conversation, 4 June 2026 Elsewhere, Inditex continues to move ahead with its ongoing retail revamp strategy, focusing on refurbishments, relocations and selective new openings. Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 3 June 2026 Others report that multi-brand stores have been less effective for their businesses, leading them to prioritize independent retail spaces and selective online offerings. Malana Vantyler, Miami Herald, 3 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for selective
Recent Examples of Synonyms for selective
Adjective
  • Fable 5, in particular, marked the first time that Anthropic released such an advanced offering to the public, thanks to new safeguards that block responses in specific high-risk areas.
    Ashley Capoot, CNBC, 13 June 2026
  • The problem, known as alpha-gal syndrome, was first linked to a particular species of ticks about 15 years ago.
    Matthew Perrone, Fortune, 13 June 2026
Adjective
  • Being choosy about that content is key.
    Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026
  • The unique flavors are enough to impress even the choosiest casserole connoisseur.
    Emma Ashe, Southern Living, 15 May 2026
Adjective
  • The company says the service offers speeds of 150Mbps, which doesn’t match full-fiber gigabit connections but is speedy enough for most usage (and perhaps to keep the pickiest lover on side).
    David Phelan, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026
  • The rapper detailed everything from how all of his kids were blessed with his looks to how RZA is a picky eater and Riot has a sweet tooth.
    Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 2 June 2026
Adjective
  • After Silseth, though, the Angels’ relievers did a nice job and the hitters executed in the 10th to push home the winner.
    Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 11 June 2026
  • The interior measures 420 sq ft (39 sq m) and is finished in shiplap and drywall, with a tongue-and-groove feature wall and exposed timber beams, which are a nice touch.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 10 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Selective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/selective. Accessed 14 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on selective

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster