What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
choose
Example
I can't decide which flavor of ice cream to choose. [choose: verb]
Example
She chose the blue dress for the party. [chose: past tense]
select
Example
Please select your preferred seat from the available options. [select: verb]
Example
The chef carefully selected the freshest ingredients for the dish. [selected: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Choose is more commonly used than select in everyday language. Choose is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while select is more specific and often used in professional or technical settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between choose and select?
While select is generally considered more formal, choose can be used in both formal and informal situations. Select is often used in professional or technical contexts, while choose has a wider range of applications.