# exclusively

/ɪkˈskɫusɪvɫi/ (US) · /ɛksklˈuːsɪvli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/exclusively
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

only and for no other person, place, or reason. You use this to show that something is limited to one specific group or purpose.

For teachers: to the exclusion of all others; solely or entirely. Often used to indicate restricted access or a singular focus on one subject.

## Examples

- This club is exclusively for members.
- The designer works exclusively with organic cotton to ensure her clothing line remains environmentally friendly.
- While the software was originally developed for government agencies, it is now used almost exclusively by private security firms to monitor digital infrastructure.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He exclusively works here" but "He works here exclusively" — When modifying the entire action of a clause, this adverb usually follows the verb or the direct object rather than sitting in the mid-position.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the adjective or prepositional phrase it modifies, or at the end of a clause.

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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.