selective

[ si-lek-tiv ]

adjective

1. having the function or power of selecting; making a selection.
2. characterized by selection, especially fastidious selection.

   Synonyms: discerning, particular, discriminating

3. of or relating to selection.
4. Electricity, Radio. having good selectivity.

selective

/ sɪˈlɛktɪv /

adjective

1. of or characterized by selection
2. tending to choose carefully or characterized by careful choice
3. electronics occurring at, operating at, or capable of separating out a particular frequency or band of frequencies

Derived Forms

• seˈlectively, adverb
• seˈlectiveness, noun

Other Words From

• se·lective·ly adverb
• se·lective·ness noun
• nonse·lective adjective
• unse·lective adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of selective¹

First recorded in 1615–25; select + -ive

Example Sentences

Presidential campaigns fully took advantage of the upheaval, calling their own shots on the debates — there was only one between Trump and Harris — and being more selective in their formal media appearances.

From Los Angeles Times

Although many schools dropped consideration of the SAT and ACT as part of admissions, selective schools are bringing them back.

From Los Angeles Times

But Harris was selective about which laws she enforced.

From BBC

Over time, prioritizing her children has made Mara herself increasingly selective.

From Los Angeles Times

James Comey, was selective and employed “a strategy of putting her on trial for being a b—,” Cutler said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• careful
• choosy
• discriminatory
• fussy
• judicious
• scrupulous