# exclusionary

/ɪkˈskɫuʒəˌnɛɹi/ (US) · /ɛksklˈuːʒənəɹi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/exclusionary
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

describing something that keeps people out or makes them feel like they do not belong. It is often used to talk about rules, groups, or systems that are not open to everyone.

For teachers: tending to exclude or prevent the inclusion of certain people or groups. Often describes social, economic, or institutional practices that create barriers to entry or participation.

## Examples

- The club's strict dress code is exclusionary.
- Critics argued that the new housing policy was exclusionary because it only benefited those with high incomes.
- The architect's design was praised for its aesthetic beauty but criticized for being exclusionary, as the narrow doorways and lack of elevators made the building inaccessible to many.

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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.