a select group

USAGE SUMMARY

"a select group" is correct and may be used in written English.
It is a phrase that is most commonly used to refer to a small group of people who are considered to be especially talented, accomplished, or unique. For example: "The President chose a select group of advisors to help him form his education policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

There's definitely a select group.

The New York Times

You join a select group.

The Guardian

A select group of the most loyal customers.

The New York Times

J. P. Morgan, like other large banks, is lending to only a select group of companies.

The New York Times

The only thing I realise is that I am with a select group in cycling history.

The Guardian - Sport

The Queensboro Bridge has a special appeal to a select group of people.

The New York Times

He does not keep a large number of horses for Steinbrenner, just a select group.

The New York Times - Sports

Companies are allowed to invite only a select group of highly paid workers to participate.

The New York Times

By withdrawing, the U.S. will join a select group of non-participants.

The New Yorker

Her clients were a select group of gentlemen who learned of her by word of mouth.

The New Yorker

Only government officials, custody officers, and a select group of experts know what ministers have authorised.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a select group" when you want to emphasize the exclusivity, high quality, or specific qualifications of a small group of people or items.

Common error

Avoid using "a select group" in overly casual or informal situations where simpler language would be more appropriate. It can sound pretentious or overly formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a select group" functions primarily as a determiner phrase followed by a noun, modifying the noun "group". Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various contexts, emphasizing its role in specifying a particular subset.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a select group" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that denotes a small, exclusive collection of individuals or items chosen for their special qualities or qualifications. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage. While versatile, it leans towards a neutral to formal register. Consider the context and ensure that it aligns with the level of formality. For more informal situations, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exclusive circle

Emphasizes the exclusivity and potential inaccessibility of the group.

a privileged few

Highlights the advantages and special status of the group members.

a chosen few

Implies a deliberate selection process, emphasizing the special qualities of the group.

an elite cadre

Suggests a highly trained and skilled group, often with a specific mission.

a handpicked team

Highlights the careful selection of individuals for a specific purpose.

a distinguished set

Focuses on the high quality and reputation of the group.

a rarefied class

Emphasizes the exclusivity and limited number of members.

a limited number

Focuses on the small quantity or availability of the group.

a special cohort

Implies a shared characteristic or experience among the group members.

a prime selection

Highlights the superior quality and careful choice of the group.

FAQs

How can I use "a select group" in a sentence?

You can use "a select group" to describe a small, exclusive collection of people or things with special qualities or qualifications. For instance, "Only "a select group" of employees was invited to the leadership retreat".

What are some alternatives to "a select group"?

Alternatives include "an exclusive circle", "a privileged few", or "an elite cadre". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "a select group" formal or informal?

"A select group" tends to be more formal. In casual contexts, simpler phrases like "a few" or "a small number" might be more suitable.

How does "a select group" differ from "a random group"?

"A select group" implies careful choosing or special qualifications, whereas "a random group" means the members were chosen without any specific criteria.