# elective

/ɪˈɫɛktɪv/ (US) · /ɪlˈɛktɪv/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/elective
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a class or subject you choose to take at school or university. Unlike required classes, you pick these based on your own interests.

For teachers: an optional course of study chosen by the student from a range of available subjects. Often contrasted with core or mandatory requirements within a curriculum.

## Examples

- I chose photography as my elective this semester.
- While her major is in biology, she decided to take a creative writing elective to improve her communication skills.
- The university offers a diverse range of electives, allowing students to explore niche interests like medieval history or digital marketing alongside their primary degree requirements.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in North American educational contexts; often paired with the verb 'take' or 'choose'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.