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
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Recent Examples of selective
The partnership is a first-of-its-kind but is selective, with Holmes stressing only a tiny proportion of the Disney+ library will move to ITVX and vice versa – totalling around 70 to 100 hours to ITVX at the start and a little more going the other way.
—
Max Goldbart, Deadline, 10 July 2025
The selective integration of Austin secondary schools was expanded.
—Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
For decades, Arab societies have criticized the West’s selective enforcement of international norms.
—H.a. Hellyer, Time, 30 June 2025
My intended lesson on Douglass’s rhetoric evolved into one about selective editing, censorship and hidden agendas.
—Frederic J. Fransen, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for selective
Max Goldbart, Deadline, 10 July 2025
The selective integration of Austin secondary schools was expanded.
—Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
For decades, Arab societies have criticized the West’s selective enforcement of international norms.
—H.a. Hellyer, Time, 30 June 2025
My intended lesson on Douglass’s rhetoric evolved into one about selective editing, censorship and hidden agendas.
—Frederic J. Fransen, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for selective
Recent Examples of Synonyms for selective
Adjective
-
The best Japanese sunscreen, in particular, shines, with many travelers stocking up on their trips to the island—or going as far as asking friends to bring these coveted cosmetic staples back to the States for them.—
Iman Balagam,
Vogue,
14 July 2025
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The composers also had to navigate the IP’s legacy, in particular, that of John Williams’ original heroic themes – the very DNA of Superman.—
Jazz Tangcay,
Variety,
14 July 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
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And by that time in her career, Salonga could be choosy.—
Robert Ito,
New York Times,
16 Feb. 2025
Adjective
-
Justin’s Almond Butter My youngest niece, a picky eater, has found her match with these nut butter pouches.—
Ronny Maye,
Forbes.com,
26 July 2025
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On the first day, my picky and very spoiled cats played with it for three hours straight.—
WIRED,
Wired News,
10 July 2025
Adjective
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And, the embroidery on the pillowcases adds a nice touch.—
Shalwah Evans,
People.com,
14 July 2025
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The units also vary in shape: the cube is nice for nightstands, while the wider grand size works well on large dressers.—
Jamie Fischer,
Better Homes & Gardens,
14 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Selective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/selective. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.
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