Definition

Relating to each person or thing separately; specific to each individual or item.

Example

The students received their respective awards at the ceremony.

Conversation

Did you hear about Sarah and Tom's new jobs?

Yeah, they both found positions in their respective fields.

It's great to see them succeed like that.

Totally! They really deserve the recognition.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Respective → It is formed from "respec" (from Latin "respectus", meaning regard or consideration) and "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "respective" means having regard to or relating to each individual or thing in a group.

Memory Tip

Think of 'regarding' ('respectus') each individual in a group — that's why 'respective' means relating to each one.

Visually Confused Words