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 Walmart says that its consumers have become cautious and selective. Anne D'innocenzio, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2025 His lawyers argued that the case involved selective prosecution and a jurisdictional issue since only Baraka was arrested. Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 May 2025 By 2024, layoffs grew more selective as leadership leaned into artificial intelligence and long-term profitability. Catherine Baab, Quartz, 13 May 2025 First reported by The New York Times, the intelligence memorandum portrays a Venezuela where criminal networks like TdA thrive amid widespread state dysfunction and selective law enforcement. Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 6 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for selective
Recent Examples of Synonyms for selective
Adjective
  • Over the past several decades, Wallen’s particular lyrical fascinations have grown impossibly coded, becoming shorthand for an entire world view.
    Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 16 May 2025
  • However, this particular security unit isn’t exactly a company-grade issue.
    Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 16 May 2025
Adjective
  • While tariffs may lead to consumers being more choosy, Link said the overall macroeconomic picture still looks positive, bolstered by lower interest rates, a steady job market and strong consumer savings.
    Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 4 Mar. 2025
  • And by that time in her career, Salonga could be choosy.
    Robert Ito, New York Times, 16 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Sometimes gratitude came easily, such as when Deb helped their kids, who were picky eaters, become more adventurous.
    Rhaina Cohen, The Atlantic, 11 May 2025
  • Although Noel is a little undersized for the position, the Bills haven’t been picky about those measurables in the Z receiver position in the past.
    Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The Half Dome comes with a footprint, which is a rarity these days, and nice to have.
    Scott Gilbertson, Wired News, 16 May 2025
  • However, a very nice man let us in, much to the chagrin of a lady who did not want to let us in.
    Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 16 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Selective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/selective. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

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