SELECTIVE Synonyms: 17 Similar and Opposite Words

selective

adjective

sə-ˈlek-tiv

Definition of selective

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 Breaking the limits of conventional catalysts Catalysts speed up chemical reactions without being consumed, but making one that is both fast and selective is difficult. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 2 Aug. 2026 Experts recommend using a selective broadleaf herbicide for the former. — Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 2 Aug. 2026 Both schools are among the most selective public institutions in the state, but the story was similar for the other state universities. — Chris Quintana, USA Today, 30 July 2026 The Kremlin at the time criticized the French authorities for their move against Durov as selective. — Dasha Litvinova, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for selective

Recent Examples of Synonyms for selective

Adjective

That protected those particular areas from ordinary floods, but the team claims, removed much of the river system’s overflow capacity.

— Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 9 Aug. 2026
In a project narrative letter, developers point out that different zoning districts are allowed within a particular comprehensive-plan designation, like the low-density residential area.

— Rose Evans August 9, Idaho Statesman, 9 Aug. 2026

Definition of particular

Adjective

Queen conchs are picky about their habitats Queen conchs are large marine gastropods, and can be found throughout the Caribbean Sea, around Bermuda and in the Florida Keys.

— Sarah Perkel, USA Today, 31 July 2026
Diners can eat outside picnic-style or take their meal to go, but either way, get ready for a satisfying option for even the pickiest of pallets.

— Gabi De la Rosa, Southern Living, 28 July 2026

Definition of picky

Browse Nearby Words

selections

selective

selectively

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Style

“Selective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/selective. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of selective

adjective

Example Sentences

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