C2nounformaleducationscience
US/sə.lekˈtɪv.ə.ti/
UK/ˌsel.ekˈtɪv.ə.ti/
the quality of choosing carefully and accepting only a small number of people or things
In context
The university is known for its selectivity, accepting only five percent of applicants.
Serious collectors show great selectivity when buying paintings.
The drug's selectivity means it attacks cancer cells but not healthy ones.
Words that go with selectivity
noun + preposition
- degree of selectivityhow carefully things or people are chosenThe university has a high degree of selectivity.
- lack of selectivitynot choosing carefullyThe lack of selectivity in hiring caused problems.
- selectivity incareful choice in a particular areaHe showed great selectivity in picking his friends.
adjective + noun
- high selectivityaccepting only a small share of optionsThe program is known for its high selectivity.