# exclusivity

/ˌɛkˌskɫuˈsɪvəti/ (US) · /ɛkskluːsˈɪvɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/exclusivity
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

the quality of being limited to only a few people or groups. It often means something is expensive, high-status, or private.

For teachers: the state of being restricted to a particular person, group, or area; the quality of being limited to a select few. Often implies high social status or the legal right to be the sole provider of a service.

## Examples

- The club maintains its exclusivity by charging high membership fees.
- The fashion brand relies on exclusivity to keep its products desirable among high-end consumers.
- The contract granted the distributor geographic exclusivity, ensuring that no other retail outlets in the region could sell the manufacturer's luxury goods.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with the preposition 'of' or used as a modifier for high-status services.

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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.