adv
Common
respectively
rih-SPEHK-tihv-lee
Respectively (adv) means In the order given, matching each item on one list to the corresponding item on another. Example: “Tom and Sara scored 90 and 85, respectively.”
adv
1
In the order given, matching each item on one list to the corresponding item on another.
"Tom and Sara scored 90 and 85, respectively."
"The gold and silver medals went to France and Italy, respectively."
"The red and blue bags are for paper and glass, respectively."
How to use respectively
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA word placed at the end of a sentence to say "in that same order" when matching two lists.
Memory tip
If you list two sets of things in the same order, "respectively" tells the reader which goes with which without repeating everything.
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more respectively
- Superlative
- most respectively
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Tom and Sara scored 90 and 85, _____.
Etymology
From respective plus the adverb suffix -ly.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for respectively
See all rhymes for respectively →Frequently asked questions
What does “respectively” mean?
The word “respectively” means in the order given, matching each item on one list to the corresponding item on another. In plain terms, a word placed at the end of a sentence to say "in that same order" when matching two lists.
How do you pronounce “respectively”?
“Respectively” is pronounced rih-SPEHK-tihv-lee (/ɹɪˈspɛktɪvli/ in IPA).
How do you use “respectively” in a sentence?
Here is “respectively” used in a sentence: “Tom and Sara scored 90 and 85, respectively.”
What part of speech is “respectively”?
“Respectively” is an adverb.
Is “respectively” a common word?
“Respectively” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between respectively and respectfully?
They sound similar but mean very different things. 'Respectively' means 'in the order given,' matching items across two lists. 'Respectfully' means 'with respect,' in a polite or deferential way. 'She thanked John and Mary respectively' pairs each name to something; 'he bowed respectfully' describes a courteous manner. Mixing them up is a common error.
What is an example of respectively?
'Tom, Dave, and Sara came first, second, and third respectively' means Tom came first, Dave second, and Sara third. The word tells you to match each name to the position in the same order. It links the two lists so readers know exactly which item goes with which.
How do you use respectively in a sentence?
Place it after two matched lists to show they line up in order: 'The red, blue, and green wires connect to pins one, two, and three respectively.' It signals that the first item in each list belongs together, then the second, then the third — sparing you from spelling out every pairing.
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