Word
exclusive
Meanings
limited to a particular person, group, place, or purpose; not shared with others
available only from a particular source or only in one place
deliberately not including everyone; shutting some people out
Definition
Limited to a particular person, group, place, or purpose and not shared with others.
Exclusive describes something that is restricted to a specific person, group, or context. It often suggests special access, rights, or availability that others do not have. It can also describe behavior or policies that deliberately leave some people out.
Examples
- The editor promised an exclusive interview, but only if we could guarantee confidentiality.
- She joined an exclusive club that prioritizes networking events over formal meetings.
- They released an exclusive track on one platform, which frustrated fans who used other services.
- I stopped going to that bar because the atmosphere felt increasingly exclusive and unwelcoming.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse exclusive (restricted or not including others) with inclusive (welcoming or including everyone).
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.