choose not to share

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "choose not to share" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the decision to withhold information or not disclose something to others. Example: "In this meeting, I choose not to share my personal opinions on the matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

It's just that we choose not to share our observations with a complete stranger.

The New York Times - Books

"I choose not to share with you what it means to lose my husband.

The Guardian

WhatsApp has said users could choose not to share account information with Facebook.

The Guardian - Tech

There may be delicate or idiosyncratic pieces of information that a campus will choose not to share.

Harvard University

Understandably, many people choose not to share the status of their mental health with colleagues or friends.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Hyman, Netflix's general counsel, says the bill lets people opt in to continual sharing by giving their affirmative consent — or to choose not to share at all.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

He struggled to recall why he had chosen not to share information with parishioners.

The New York Times

If Anthony had any thoughts on the matter, he chose not to share them Monday.

The New York Times - Sports

She is so unexpectedly happy that she chooses not to share her neighbors' suspicions as to the identity of an arsonist in the area.

The New York Times - Books

It seems a strange decision that someone whose act is so visually compelling chooses not to share it with the masses via the video screens.

The Guardian - Music

Breaking the chain of human connection, I ball up my receipt and beeline away, the regret of what I have chosen not to share setting in immediately.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "choose not to share" when you want to emphasize a conscious decision to withhold information, rather than simply forgetting or neglecting to share it.

Common error

Avoid using "choose not to share" when a more direct phrase like "decline to comment" or "prefer not to say" would be clearer and more appropriate, especially in formal or professional settings. This prevents potential misinterpretations about your reasons for not sharing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "choose not to share" functions as a verb phrase indicating a decision to withhold information. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show its function in expressing personal choices about privacy and disclosure.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "choose not to share" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a deliberate decision to withhold information. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's used across various contexts, from news and media to academic discussions, indicating a neutral register. While many alternatives exist, such as "decline to disclose" or "opt to withhold", the key is to consider the specific context and audience to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. The phrase's frequency suggests it's a reliable and well-understood way to communicate the act of intentionally keeping something private.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

opt to withhold

This alternative emphasizes a conscious decision to keep something back.

decline to disclose

Focuses on refusing to reveal information.

refrain from sharing

This option suggests a deliberate act of holding back.

keep private

Highlights the intention to maintain confidentiality.

prefer to keep confidential

Emphasizes a preference for maintaining secrecy.

elect not to reveal

Indicates a formal choice against revealing something.

decide against sharing

Focuses on the decision-making process of not sharing.

hold back from disclosing

Suggests an active effort to prevent information from being known.

opt out of sharing

Highlights the act of exclusion from a sharing activity.

remain silent about

Focuses on maintaining silence regarding a topic.

FAQs

What does "choose not to share" mean?

The phrase "choose not to share" means to make a conscious decision to withhold information or not disclose something to others. It implies a deliberate act of keeping something private.

How can I use "choose not to share" in a sentence?

You can use "choose not to share" in a sentence like, "I "decline to disclose" further details at this time" or "Many people "prefer to keep confidential" their financial details".

What are some alternatives to "choose not to share"?

Some alternatives to "choose not to share" include "opt to withhold", "decline to disclose", "refrain from sharing", or "keep private".

Is "choose not to share" formal or informal?

The phrase "choose not to share" is generally neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "decline to disclose" might be preferable in professional settings.