C1adjectiveformal2K

Exclusive

UK /["/ɪkˈskluːsɪv/"]/US /["/ɪkˈskluːsɪv/"]/

Definition

only to be used by one particular person or group; only given to one particular person or group

In simple words: Only available to certain people.

Examples

  • This club offers exclusive membership only to invited guests.
  • The magazine published an exclusive interview with the celebrity.
  • The store sells exclusive designer clothes that you cannot find anywhere else.
  • She has exclusive rights to distribute the product in this country.
  • Our team is working on an exclusive story for tonight’s news.
  • The restaurant is exclusive, and only VIP customers are allowed to enter.
  • The invitation was exclusive to members of the board.

Usage notes

Use 'exclusive' in contexts that involve privilege, limited access, or special rights. It is more appropriate in formal situations, such as marketing or high-end services. Avoid in casual conversations where inclusivity is emphasized.

Grammar pattern

exclusive + to + group/people

Memory hint

Think of 'ex' as in 'exit' — something you leave behind, signifying limited access.

Collocations

  • be
  • almost
  • not necessarily
  • to
  • be
  • become
  • remain
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • mutually

Synonyms

  • selective
  • restricted
  • limited
  • private
  • special

Antonyms

  • inclusive
  • common
  • shared

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'inclusive', meaning the opposite of exclusive.
  • Using 'exclusive' to describe something that is widely available.
  • Wrongly placing 'exclusive' before a noun it doesn’t modify.