a formal selection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formal selection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where a process or method of choosing someone or something is conducted in an official or structured manner. Example: "The committee will conduct a formal selection of candidates for the scholarship program next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

A year earlier, the authority had used a formal selection process to pick dozens of firms that specialized in various areas of the law, including commercial real estate law.

The New York Times

Second-year MBA students, chosen through a formal selection process, exchange places for one semester with students selected by established partner institutions.

Cornell University

While city regulations require a formal selection process as well as a public posting of job openings, that process was often moot.

The New York Times

The family trustees and the Times Company's board approved the appointment after a recommendation from a seven-member committee, which was formed as part of a formal selection process.

The New York Times

Although Sir David was an obvious candidate for the role, as he is leaving Network Rail early next year and the construction industry had pushed for him to be involved, the Australian would not have been the only strong candidate had there been a formal selection process.

Independent

A formal selection process for Conservative candidates will start next month.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Three months into Infantino's FIFA reign, there was controversy, initially with the unilateral appointment of Senegal's Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura as secretary-general without any formal selection process.

Encyclopedia Britannica

All the covariates were inserted in the model without any formal selection.

Diabetes Care

An alternative analytical approach would have involved a more formal selection of comparison dates from previous years based on defined matching characteristics (i.e., mixing height, wind speed, precipitation, temperature and humidity).

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

The postal districts were selected to reflect a range of sociodemographic characteristics, although no formal selection process was used for this.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Formal selection of measures for a composite index of NICU quality of care: Baby-MONITOR.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a formal selection" when you want to emphasize that a specific process or set of rules was followed in making a choice. This adds credibility and transparency to the selection process.

Common error

Avoid using "a formal selection" when a simpler term like "selection process" or "official choice" would suffice. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formal selection" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act or method of choosing something or someone according to established rules or criteria. Ludwig examples confirm its use in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

50%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formal selection" is a noun phrase denoting a structured and official choice-making process. Ludwig AI analysis affirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly within news, scientific, and academic domains. When writing, use this phrase to emphasize adherence to specific rules and enhance the credibility of a decision. Related alternatives include "a structured choice" and "an official determination", offering nuanced ways to express the same concept. However, ensure that its formality aligns with your text's register to maintain stylistic consistency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a structured choice

Emphasizes the organized and methodical nature of the selection process.

an official determination

Highlights the authoritative and sanctioned aspect of the selection.

a rigorous process of choice

Stresses the thoroughness and strictness involved in the selection.

a methodical appointment

Focuses on the systematic approach taken when assigning a role or position.

a regulated election

Underlines the governed and controlled nature of an election process.

a standardized assessment

Highlights that assessment follows defined standards or procedure.

a prescribed option

Focuses on the required or predetermined nature of the selection.

a set decision

Indicates that the selection is fixed or prearranged.

a classified ranking

Emphasizes the categorization and ordering in a selection procedure.

a deliberate pick

Highlights the intentional and careful nature of the selection.

FAQs

How can I use "a formal selection" in a sentence?

You can use "a formal selection" to describe a process where choices are made according to established rules or procedures. For example, "The committee employed "a formal selection" process to choose the scholarship recipient".

What phrases are similar to "a formal selection"?

Similar phrases include "a structured choice", "an official determination", or "a rigorous process of choice". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to use "a formal selection" when describing a choice?

No, using "a formal selection" is only appropriate when the selection process is indeed formal and follows specific guidelines. If the choice is informal or arbitrary, this phrase would not be suitable.

What's the difference between "a formal selection" and "a selection process"?

"A selection process" is a broader term referring to any method of choosing, while "a formal selection" implies that the process is structured and governed by specific rules or guidelines.