Choice

Definition

Choice is a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to the act of selecting or making a decision when faced with two or more possibilities. It also denotes the available options or the best alternative. As an adjective, it describes something as being of high quality or carefully selected.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃɔɪs/
• Respelling: chois

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃɔɪs/
• Respelling: chois

Etymology

The word "choice" originates from the Old French "chois," meaning "decision" or "selecting," which comes from the Latin "causa," meaning "reason" or "cause." It was adapted into Middle English in the 14th century, acquiring its current sense of selection or preferred option.

Derivatives

• Choose (verb)
• Chooser (noun)
• Choiceness (noun)
• Choices (plural noun)
• Chosen (adjective/verb)

Synonyms

• Selection
• Option
• Alternative

Antonyms

• Compulsion
• Obligation
• Constraint

Usage

The term "choice" is often used to refer to the process of decision-making or the options available in a given situation. For example, "She made a wise choice," or "The store offers a variety of choices."

Related Terms

• Decision: A conclusion or resolution reached after consideration.
• Preference: A greater liking for one option over another.
• Selection: The act of choosing something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of selecting between options: Refers to the process of deciding between two or more possibilities.
  • Example: "He was faced with a difficult choice."
• An available option or alternative: Indicates one of the options among a set of possible selections.
  • Example: "They have a wide choice of books."
• The best or preferred option: Describes the most desirable or favorable selection.
  • Example: "She was his first choice for the job."

Adjective

• Of high quality or carefully selected: Describes something that is considered premium or selectively chosen.
  • Example: "The restaurant offers a selection of choice wines."