selective
UK[sɪˈlɛktɪv]US[səˈlɛktɪv]
adj
Carefully choosing only the best or most suitable people or things.
adj
Affecting or involving only a small number of people or things from a larger group.
adj
(of a device or process) Operating or responding only to specific stimuli or frequencies.
Morpheme Breakdown
select
ive
select
choose
ive
adjective-forming suffix
Etymology
The adjective 'selective' is built upon the verb 'select,' which entered English from the Latin 'seligere,' a compound of 'se-' (apart) and 'legere' (to gather, choose). The suffix '-ive,' also of Latin origin, transforms the action into a descriptive quality. Thus, the literal construction means "having the nature of choosing apart." Over time, this evolved from the concrete act of picking things out to describe any process, system, or person characterized by careful choice or discrimination, extending into technical fields like electronics and biology to denote specific, non-random responsiveness.
Analysis
Structure: select (choose) + ive (adjective-forming suffix)
- select: From Latin 'seligere' (to choose out, pick out). In this word, it functions as the core root conveying the meaning of choosing.
- ive: A suffix of Latin origin ('-ivus') used to form adjectives meaning "tending to," "having the nature of," or "performing the action of."
Examples
The university is highly selective in its admissions process.
He has a selective memory, recalling only the events that suit him.
The herbicide is selective, targeting broadleaf weeds without harming the grass.