A system, method, and computer-readable medium for dynamically partitioning a directory list to limit recipients to an appropriate context. More specifically, in certain embodiments the dynamic partitioning includes a first component which describes a priori categories. In certain embodiments, the a priori categories could include “inner circle” or “trusted advisors” categories. Other categories could include “friends of the DL” who only want occasional but relevant messages. In certain embodiments, these categories are created by a DL owner. However, in certain embodiments, members (e.g., recipients) could also change their own category. For example, a DL could have categories: All, Required participants, FYI participants, Managers.