respective

American  

[ri-spek-tiv] / rɪˈspɛk tɪv /

adjective

1. pertaining individually or severally to each of a number of persons, things, etc.; particular.

   I will now discuss the respective merits of the candidates.

   Synonyms:

   corresponding, individual, separate

   Antonyms:

   irrespective

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respective British  

/ rɪˈspɛktɪv /

adjective

1. belonging or relating separately to each of several people or things; several

   we took our respective ways home

2. an archaic word for respectful

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Other Word Forms

• respectiveness noun

Etymology

Origin of respective

First recorded in 1515–25; from Medieval Latin respectīvus, equivalent to Latin respect(us) ( respect ( def. ) ) + -īvus -ive ( def. )

Example Sentences

However, he also noted that Apellis’ drugs have both had challenges in their respective markets.

From MarketWatch

For O'Neill, the different manner of their respective World Cup dreams being extinguished will not impact the game.

From BBC

Given the teams' respective defeats on Thursday, their friendly encounter has been met with apathy on both sides.

From BBC

Both are now running for seats in their respective state Houses.

From Salon

Here, both Coppola and Jacobs are more relaxed than they have been in either of their respective fields in years.

From Salon

Related Words

• various