"respective positions" is a proper phrase in written English and it means a person or group's particular place or rank.
For example: The two teams defended their respective positions in the game.
They were positioned in the minimized catalytic core with respect to their respective positions in the 3FOF structure.
Not a lot of experience at their respective positions.
But Miliband and the Tory rebels insisted they would stand by their respective positions.
The impossibility of any convergence between our respective positions became clear in that brief moment.
He tells the press conference that leaders now have a better idea about their respective positions.
Two of the best players in the N.F.L. at their respective positions meet again Sunday.
If time allows, partners or group members may share their own answers to these questions and debate their respective positions.
If both the IMF and the European Union stick to their respective positions a renewed impasse is likely.
Heath said: "We think we've signed some of the best players in their respective positions in MLS.
Even more than a gap on specific policies, Mr. Obama and Mr. McCain's respective positions represent a fundamental philosophical difference.
These themes complement each other, and the evangelical and secular Left mutually reinforce each other's respective positions.
