Exclusive vs Inclusive: Meanings, usage, and differences
Despite seeming similar, the words exclusive and inclusive carry different meanings. Exclusive, used as an adjective, conveys the idea of limitation, as seen in phrases like exclusive interview or exclusive club. Inclusive, on the other hand, suggests comprehensiveness or completeness, and is often used in terms like inclusive society or inclusive nation. Exclusive can also be used as a noun.
Understanding the meaning of Exclusive
Exclusive can be used as an adjective and has an adverbial form, exclusively. In sentences, the word exclusive implies a sense of limitation or privacy. For example, “an exclusive interview with the prime minister” means a private interview with the prime minister. The word can also be used as a noun to refer to an item or story published or broadcasted by only one source, such as an exclusive interview. Additionally, exclusive can suggest something is expensive or intended for wealthy or high-status individuals.
Defining Inclusive
Inclusive is used as an adjective and has an adverbial form, inclusively. In sentences, the word implies comprehensiveness or completeness, as in “the fee was inclusive of expenses towards lunch.” Inclusive can also refer to something that includes a diverse group of people and treats everyone fairly and equally, such as an inclusive society or inclusive nation.
Key Takeaways
- Exclusive is used as an adjective and a noun, while inclusive is only an adjective; both have adverbial variations.
- Exclusive conveys the idea of limitation, privacy, or expensiveness, whereas inclusive suggests comprehensiveness, completeness, or inclusivity of diverse groups.
- When used as a noun, exclusive refers to an item or story published or broadcasted by only one source.
