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

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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 The membrane, made from porous polyacrylonitrile (PAN), eliminates the need for ultrathin selective coatings traditionally required for molecular separation. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 29 June 2026 Credit is due to opening his stance and a more selective approach. Tom Layberger, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 Alito’s insistence on ignoring the possibility of someone using a pretext to engage in racial discrimination is actually quite selective. Adam Serwer, The Atlantic, 27 June 2026 Therefore, the financial support of various news media platforms, especially newspapers, such as the Hartford Courant, is rather crucial for allowing freedom of speech to flourish in times of selective restriction by government agencies. Letters To The Editor, Hartford Courant, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for selective
Recent Examples of Synonyms for selective
Adjective
  • The 5-star analyst highlighted that Pinterest has delivered double-digit global user growth for ten consecutive quarters, with his May data analysis indicating particular momentum in the second quarter of 2026.
    TipRanks.com Staff, CNBC, 28 June 2026
  • And Freddie becomes a bag man for the civil rights movement, and the Rumford Act in particular.
    Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 27 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
  • McLaughlin admits that years of parenting picky eaters helped inspire the central idea behind the project.
    Chris Barilla, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026
  • Lemon balm is not particularly picky about soil but needs good drainage to return after winter, which is most likely in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3-7.
    Steve Bender, Southern Living, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • Neither side has been shy of attacking, which has been a nice change of pace compared with the first couple of knockout stage matches.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 30 June 2026
  • Been shooting some nice low scores in these last couple weeks outs here, so that’s something good to pat myself on the back.
    Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 29 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Selective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/selective. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

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