Choose

Definition

Choose is a verb. It means to select from a number of options or to decide on a course of action after consideration.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʧuz/
• Respelling: chooz

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʧuːz/
• Respelling: chooz

The pronunciation of "choose" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "choose" originates from the Old English "cēosan," meaning "to select or decide," which came from Proto-Germanic "*keusaną," meaning "to taste" or "to try." The term has retained its meaning of selection or decision-making over time.

Derivatives

• Chosen (adjective)
• Choosy (adjective)
• Chooser (noun)
• Choosing (verb)
• Rechoose (verb)

Synonyms

• Select
• Pick
• Decide

Antonyms

• Refuse
• Reject
• Ignore

Usage

The term "choose" is often used in contexts requiring selection, as in "Please choose a book from the shelf." It can also imply decision-making in scenarios with multiple options, such as "He had to choose between staying home or going to the party."

Related Terms

• Decision: A conclusion or choice made after consideration.
• Preference: A greater liking for one alternative over another.
• Selection: The action or process of choosing something.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To select from a range of possibilities: Indicates picking or deciding on one option from several.
  • Example: "She had to choose a dress for the event."
• To make a decision after consideration: Refers to the process of deciding between options after careful thought.
  • Example: "He chose to pursue a career in medicine."