Exclusive Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How to Use It

Are you and your S.O. exclusive? Do you know what the word exclusive means? This guide will tell you everything you need to know.

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If you’ve been seeing someone casually and are ready to take your relationship to the next level, the thought of “going exclusive” may cross your mind. For many people, it’s a big step to take. You want to be sure you know exactly what it means to be exclusive. That said, what is the definition of the word exclusive mean, and where did it come from? 

You have questions, and we have answers. Read on to get the scoop on our word of the day — exclusive. We’ll go over everything there’s to know about the word and what it actually means. We’ll also give you examples of how to use the term exclusive in a sentence. 

What Is the Definition of Exclusive?

If you ask us, one of the best ways to learn the meaning of a word is to research its definition from a multitude of sources. So, to begin our journey in understanding the term exclusive, we’ve compiled a shortlist of definitions provided by a few trusted dictionaries below:

  • According to the Collins Dictionary, if you describe something as exclusive, you mean that it’s limited to those who are privileged and, therefore, not available to everyone. 
  • The Macmillan Dictionary says exclusive means published or reported to only one magazine, television station, newspaper, etc.

After reviewing the definitions listed above, we can conclude that exclusive means only to be used by one particular person or group. In other words — not shared. In a relationship, being exclusive means only having one partner. Our word of the day can also be defined as an item or feature broadcasted or published by only one source. 

What Is the Origin of Exclusive?

Our word of the day is derived from Latin exclūsīvus and excludere, meaning “to shut out” or “exclude.” 

What Are the Synonyms and Antonyms of Exclusive?

Exclusive can be defined as having the power to exclude — but what are the synonyms and antonyms? 

To better understand the word, check out similar words that can be used as a substitute for exclusive. Words or phrases that are similar to another word or have a related meaning, synonyms of exclusive include:

  • Complete
  • Full
  • Entire
  • Whole
  • Absolute
  • Total
  • Single
  • Especial
  • Dedicated
  • Sole
  • Unshared
  • Unique
  • Only
  • Personal
  • Private
  • Individual

In contrast, an antonym is a word with a meaning that is opposite to the meaning of another word. Antonyms of exclusive include:

  • Partial
  • Open
  • Old-fashioned
  • Public
  • Poor
  • Incomplete
  • Part
  • Divided
  • Unrestricted
  • Shared
  • Unlimited
  • Inferior
  • Inclusive
  • Non-exclusive

How Can You Use Exclusive in a Sentence?

By now, you should have a pretty good understanding of the word exclusive. Put your newfound knowledge to the test and see how many sentences you can think of using exclusively. The best way to confirm you know the definition is to actually use it. Not sure where to start? Check out our example sentences listed below:

“We’ve been dating casually since January and are finally exclusive.”

“Joe went to an exclusive private school when he was younger.”

“Keep in mind that prices are exclusive of taxes and delivery.”

“These word lists are exclusive to our class, so please don’t share them with your friends in other classes.”

“The cookies are exclusive to the local markets, so you won’t find them in any big chained food stores.”

“Did you know that the word exclusive comes from Latin exclūsīvus and excludere?”

“Look, I don’t mean to come off kind of snobbish, but I already gave a different news organization exclusive rights to my story, so if you could stop pestering me, I’d appreciate it. “

“After remaining silent about the horrific event for more than twenty years, Barbara finally agreed to an exclusive interview.”

“Thanks to Charlie’s high-quality exclusive story, magazine sales soared.”

“After word got around about her winning lottery ticket, a number of news organizations called for an exclusive interview.”

“New York is home to some of the most exclusive shops around the world.”

“The bridal party had exclusive use of the boat for the afternoon.”

“My husband always makes reservations for exclusive restaurants three months in advance.”

“The book was such a hit that the author is now getting swarmed by movie producers looking to get exclusive rights.”

“Frank said I wasn’t cool enough to be a part of the exclusive club.”

“In order to succeed in this role, you have to give it your exclusive attention.”

“I feel so spoiled — the hotel that we are staying at this weekend has exclusive access to the beach!”

“It costs about a buck-fifty to mail the letter — exclusive of postage.”

“Did you know that Bel-Air is an exclusive suburb of Los Angeles?”

“If you’ve been seeing each other casually for more than a year, and he still doesn’t want to make your relationship exclusive, I’d say it’s time to jump ship.”

“This diet plan is exclusive to my body type and lifestyle.”

“After months of negotiating, Tiffany was awarded $5,000 for the exclusive rights to her story.”

What Are Translations of Exclusive?

There are many ways that you can say our word of the day — depending on the language you speak. Here are some of the most common translations of exclusive:

  • American English: exclusive /ɪksˈklusɪv/
  • Brazilian Portuguese: exclusivo 
  • Chinese: 仅限富贵人士的
  • European Spanish: exclusivo 
  • French: sélect 
  • German: exklusiv 
  • Italian: esclusivo 
  • Japanese: 上流向けの
  • Korean: 상류의
  • European Portuguese: exclusivo 
  • Spanish: exclusivo 
  • Thai: ที่เป็นพิเศษ, โดยเฉพาะ, ซึ่งผูกขาด

Conclusion

Defined as excluding or having power to exclude, the word exclusive simply means limited access. By its nature, something that’s considered exclusive leaves people out — or excludes them. Exclusive can also mean only or sole. The term is often used in reference to relationships, either personal or business. 

Interested in discovering more words? Check out our blog and enhance your existing vocabulary today!

Sources: 

  1. EXCLUSIVE (adjective) definition and synonyms | Macmillan Dictionary
  2. Exclusive definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary
  3. EXCLUSIVE : definition | Cambridge English Dictionary