C1adjectiveformalacademicbusiness
US/rɪˈspek.tɪv/
UK/rɪˈspek.tɪv/
belonging separately to each of the people or things you have just mentioned
In context
After the meeting, the two managers returned to their respective offices.
The children were asked about their respective hobbies.
Both countries have strong views on the issue, given their respective histories.
Words that go with respective
adjective + noun
- their respective rolesThe actors discussed their respective roles in the film.
- respective countriesMinisters flew back to their respective countries.
- respective fieldsThey are both experts in their respective fields.
- respective companiesThe two CEOs spoke for their respective companies.
- respective ownersThe keys were returned to their respective owners.
- respective rightsEach party must protect its respective rights.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The two managers went back to their respective office.Correct: The two managers went back to their respective offices.