selective

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In this case, an "and" logic gate ensures that the drug activates only when both cancer markers are present, making the treatment highly selective.

From Science Daily • Apr. 2, 2026

The broad selloff may be followed with some selective buying later on.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

At the 23 selective private colleges Burd studied, these students were asked to pay an average of $24,000 a year.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 27, 2026

And when Jimmy Carter announced the return of the selective service in 1980, in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Gil, still an underclassman, decided to take a stand: He refused to sign up.

From Slate • Mar. 25, 2026

Instead, Mr. Capron kept their demonstrations selective: “they do not mean to give any public exhibitions …” only, “private investigations of scientific persons and friends.”

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock