selected file

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "selected file" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a file that has been chosen or highlighted for a specific action, such as opening, editing, or deleting. Example: "Please ensure that the selected file is saved before closing the application."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

The selected file with path and extension appended.

Harvard University

The keyboard shortcut for the same action on a selected file is Command-I.

The New York Times - Tech

Clicking the Share button for a selected file provides other ways to share besides sending an e-mail with a Web link to a group of people.

The New York Times

If you want even more choices about where you can send the selected file, hold down the Shift key while right-clicking.

The New York Times - Tech

Mac OS X users can get similar information on a selected file or folder by either right-clicking (or control-clicking) on the item and choosing Get Info from the menu.

The New York Times - Tech

Fig. 4 Visualization showing access history of a selected file: (a) Timeline visualization; (b) Access history viewer; (c) User filter.

Visualization in Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Decide if you'd always like to use this program for the selected file-type.

WikiHow

Right-click on the selected files.

WikiHow

Drag the selected files into iTunes.

WikiHow

The selected files will be highlighted.

WikiHow

... .. <- Select file from this column.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In user interface design, ensure the "selected file" is visually distinct (e.g. highlighted) to reinforce the user's choice.

Common error

If your application allows multiple file selections, clarify whether you are referring to all "selected files" or a specific one within the selection. Use clear pluralization or specify "the currently selected file" if appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "selected file" functions as a noun phrase, where "selected" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "file". It designates a particular file that has been chosen from a set of files. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through its numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

28%

Science

28%

News & Media

16%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "selected file" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to identify a chosen file. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, from technical documentation and user interfaces to news articles and scientific papers. While interchangeable alternatives like "chosen file" exist, "selected file" maintains a neutral register and is broadly understood. When using this phrase, it's essential to avoid ambiguity by clearly indicating whether you're referring to a single file or multiple files, especially in applications that support multiple selections. The phrase's prevalence and consistent application across different sources underscores its reliability in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chosen file

Replaces "selected" with a direct synonym, maintaining a similar level of formality.

highlighted file

Focuses on the visual aspect of selection, implying the file is visually distinguished.

designated file

Implies the file has been specifically appointed for a certain purpose.

specified file

Indicates the file has been explicitly named or identified.

identified file

Similar to 'specified file', but with a stronger emphasis on recognition.

file in question

Used to refer back to a file previously mentioned, often in legal or formal contexts.

aforementioned file

A formal way of referring to a file previously mentioned.

particular file

Emphasizes that it is not just any file, but a specific one.

file selected by the user

Explicitly indicates the user made the selection.

file under consideration

Suggests the file is being actively reviewed or evaluated.

FAQs

What is another way to say "selected file"?

Alternatives include "chosen file", "highlighted file", or "designated file", depending on the context. The phrase "chosen file" often works as a direct substitute.

How can I refer to a file that was chosen previously?

Use phrases like "the file in question" or "the aforementioned file" to refer back to a file that has already been introduced. The phrase "the file in question" is particularly useful in formal or legal contexts.

Is it correct to say "selected files" when referring to multiple files?

Yes, "selected files" is the correct plural form when referring to more than one file. Make sure the context makes it clear that you are speaking about the selection in its totality, and not one specific file.

What's the difference between "selected file" and "active file"?

"Selected file" means a file has been chosen from a list. "Active file" refers to the file currently open and being worked on. The "active file" is generally the one that currently has focus in an application.