discretionary selection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "discretionary selection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where choices or decisions are made based on personal judgment rather than fixed rules or criteria. Example: "The committee's approach to hiring involved a discretionary selection process, allowing them to consider candidates' unique qualities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Coaches gave Yater-Wallace the fourth spot on the team, a discretionary selection despite not having competed for nearly a year, a nod to his reputation and past accomplishments.

The Washington Post

In a bit of a consolation prize, he earned the final spot on the United States team when the American captain, Davis Love III, used his final discretionary selection on Moore instead of several other contenders, most notably Bubba Watson, who is ranked seventh in the world.

The New York Times - Sports

Gay could still be named to the 4 x 100 relay team for the world championships as a discretionary selection, and there was speculation initially that he would run the 200, where he would have been a heavy favorite to make the team.

The Washington Post

"We used a discretionary selection policy, which means we used our expertise.

BBC

Failing that, we have a discretionary selection around assisting those athletes who have got a medal chance.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Intriguingly, there is plenty of talk of active ETFs that would combine elements of discretionary stock selection and the tracking of a benchmark.

The Economist

This wouldn't work for someone who has jumped in and out of the market, relied exclusively upon brokers for discretionary security selection or doesn't have a specific strategy.

The New York Times

"One spot is always discretionary in our selections so even if you don't perform at the selection races, if you've got good results to fall back on you've got more of a chance.

BBC

These discretionary clinical management selections may have substantial cost, including potential for patient harm, and likely do not provide patients much benefit.

BMC Health Services Research

There is some discretionary power in the selection process in case of injuries, but it rarely comes into play.

The New York Times - Sports

An appeals panel found in his favour, forcing British Swimming to consider his case for selection under discretionary criteria within their own policy, based around fitness and medical issues.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing the phrase with similar phrases that are more clear, if the text has complex language, avoid using too many advanced words

Common error

Do not assume your audience understands the basis for the "discretionary selection". Always clarify the factors influencing the choice to avoid perceptions of bias or arbitrariness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "discretionary selection" functions as a noun phrase where "discretionary" modifies the noun "selection". Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It typically identifies a process where choices are made based on judgment rather than strict rules.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "discretionary selection" refers to a method of choice rooted in individual judgment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It finds primary usage in news and media, with some presence in scientific and academic contexts. Related phrases include "optional choice" or "subjective selection". When employing the term, ensure clarity about the decision-making process to avoid ambiguity. While grammatically sound, its relatively low frequency suggests it's used in specific situations where individualized judgment in selection is relevant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discretionary determination

Synonymous to "discretionary selection" but use determination instead of selection.

optional choice

Replaces the more formal "selection" with the simpler "choice".

subjective selection

Highlights the personal and potentially variable nature of the selection.

judgment-based selection

Emphasizes that the selection is rooted in someone's assessment.

preferential selection

Indicates a choice is made based on preference rather than strict criteria.

elective determination

Replaces "selection" with a word denoting decision-making.

free choice

Highlights the unrestricted nature of the choice.

case-by-case selection

Highlights that each selection decision is made considering the specific context.

flexible allocation

Suggests the act of distribution based on individual judgement and decision.

voluntary designation

Implies a decision made willingly and according to one's own discretion.

FAQs

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

You might say, "The committee employed a "discretionary selection" process, considering each candidate's unique qualifications" or "The final spot was filled via a "discretionary selection" by the coach".

What are some alternatives to "discretionary selection"?

Consider using phrases like "optional choice", "subjective selection", or "judgment-based selection" depending on the context.

What does "discretionary" mean in the context of "discretionary selection"?

In this context, "discretionary" means that the selection is based on individual judgment and not strictly determined by pre-set rules or qualifications. It implies a degree of flexibility and personal assessment.

Is "discretionary selection" the same as "arbitrary selection"?

No, while both involve some level of subjective decision-making, "discretionary selection" implies a considered judgment, whereas "arbitrary selection" suggests a random or irrational choice. The former often involves some criteria, even if not rigidly defined.