selective

/səˈlɛktɪv/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Of or relating to the process of selection.

Adjective

Examples

The selective algorithm excludes the redundant classifiers to construct a streamlined ensemble learning.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Of or relating to natural selection.

Adjective

Examples

selective pressure

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “selective” mean?

Of or relating to the process of selection.

Is “selective” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.