selectivity

[ si-lek-tiv-i-tee, see-lek- ]

/ sɪ lɛkˈtɪv ɪ ti, ˌsi lɛk- /

the state or quality of being selective.

Electricity. the property of a circuit, instrument, or the like, by virtue of which it can distinguish oscillations of a particular frequency.

Radio. the ability of a receiving set to receive any one of a band of frequencies or waves to the exclusion of others.

Origin of selectivity

First recorded in 1900–05; selective + -ity

This is due in part to individual attention given the defendants, but also the selectivity of the courts.

From PTSD to Prison: Why Veterans Become Criminals |Matthew Wolfe |July 28, 2013 |DAILY BEAST
But their selectivity in applying scripture shows the depth of their hypocrisy.

Why Black Preachers Pretend a Key Civil-Rights Leader Didn’t Exist |Mansfield Frazier, Larry Durstin |May 16, 2012 |DAILY BEAST
While only 20 years old, Prince Valentine laments the selectivity inherent in international justice.

Liberian Nostalgia for War Criminal Charles Taylor |Finlay Young |April 28, 2012 |DAILY BEAST
The rare-earths possess the property of selectivity and are fortunately highly refractory.

Artificial Light |M. Luckiesh

Certainly the principle of selectivity is a byway of possibilities.

Artificial Light |M. Luckiesh
This selectivity of absorption may account for the difference in the toxicity of zinc salts to plants in the various soils.

Inorganic Plant Poisons and Stimulants |Winifred E. Brenchley
Like a thunderstorm creating radio static, there was no selectivity.

The Penal Cluster |Ivar Jorgensen (AKA Randall Garrett)
The effect of the selectivity of the “yellow spot” is noticeable in viewing certain colors.

Visual Illusions |Matthew Luckiesh

selectivity

/ (sɪˌlɛkˈtɪvɪtɪ) /

the state or quality of being selective

the degree to which a radio receiver or other circuit can respond to and separate the frequency of a desired signal from other frequencies by tuning

the principle that welfare services should go only to those whose need is greatest, as revealed by needs tests, means tests, etc