respective

[ri-spek-tiv]

adjective

1. pertaining individually or severally to each of a number of persons, things, etc.; particular.

   I will now discuss the respective merits of the candidates.

   Synonyms: corresponding, individual, separate
   Antonyms: irrespective

respective

/ rɪˈspɛktɪv /

adjective

1. belonging or relating separately to each of several people or things; several

   we took our respective ways home

2. an archaic word for respectful

Other Word Forms

• respectiveness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of respective¹

First recorded in 1515–25; from Medieval Latin respectīvus, equivalent to Latin respect(us) ( respect ( def. ) ) + -īvus -ive ( def. )

Example Sentences

State visits like these allow presidents and prime ministers to connect with one other on a more personal level, and offer a chance for their respective staff to build working relationships.

From BBC

Marin, in his lifelong quest to collect works for his private collection, has seen how Chicano artists have grown their communities in their respective cities.

From Los Angeles Times

Hawke and Wilson, in their respective statements, lauded Redford for his commitment to environmental causes.

From Los Angeles Times

But the acting performances were praised across the board - with Doherty and Graham both winning for their respective roles, while the show also won awards for its writing and direction.

From BBC

Leeds might fancy their chances at Craven Cottage but you only have to look at their respective squads to see the difference in quality between the two sides, player for player, including on the bench.

From BBC

Related Words

• various