C1adverbformal10K+

Respectively

UK /["/rɪˈspektɪvli/"]/US /["/rɪˈspektɪvli/"]/

Definition

in the same order as the people or things already mentioned

In simple words: In the order mentioned.

Examples

Julie and Mark, aged 17 and 19 respectively

Usage notes

Use 'respectively' in formal writing to clarify which item belongs to which in a series. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

used in a sentence to link two sets of items

Memory hint

Think of 're-spectively' as giving respect to each item in order.

Collocations

list respectively
mention respectively
arrange respectively

Synonyms

correspondingly
individually
alternatively

Antonyms

collectively
jointly
together

Common mistakes

Used incorrectly with more than two items.
Omitted when it is necessary for clarity.
Confused with 'respectfully'.