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selective
/səˈlɛktɪv/
When used to describe people, "selective" can be a polite way of saying someone is very picky or hard to please. In scientific or technical contexts, it refers to precision—the ability to affect one specific thing while leaving others alone. It is commonly paired with the adverb "highly" (e.g., "highly selective") to emphasize that the standards for choosing are extremely strict.
💬Casual Conversation
The fuel scrubbers are acting up. Only cleaning half the tanks.
Great. Now the ship is being selective about which engines actually work.
Meanings
Tending to choose carefully; picking only the best or most suitable.
"The university is highly selective, admitting only a small percentage of applicants."