to select

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to select" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of choosing or picking something from a group or list. Example: "Please take a moment to select your preferred option from the menu."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"You're forced to select.

The New York Times

Which company to select?

The New York Times

Freedom to select.

The Guardian

We tried to select shoes.

The New York Times

What influenced you to select your major?

The New York Times

So we have to select.

SEP

to select the winners.

TechCrunch

To select the two winners.

Forbes

Push the pad to select.

Forbes

Push it forward to select Reverse.

BBC

First, which strike price to select.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to select" in formal writing, ensure it's followed by a clear description of what is being chosen. For example, "to select the most appropriate candidate."

Common error

Avoid using "to select" when a simpler word like "to choose" or "to pick" would suffice. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to select" functions primarily as an infinitive of purpose, often introducing a clause that explains the reason for an action. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

27%

News & Media

23%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to select" is a grammatically sound and frequently used infinitive of purpose. It indicates the reason behind an action, with a neutral to professional tone. While suitable for various contexts, especially Wiki, News & Media, and Formal & Business, consider simpler alternatives like "to choose" or "to pick" in less formal situations. Ludwig AI validates the correctness and versatility of this phrase, making it a valuable tool in your writing arsenal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to choose

A general synonym that emphasizes the act of picking one option from many.

to pick

Similar to 'choose', but often implies a more casual or less formal selection process.

to opt for

Indicates a deliberate decision in favor of one option over others.

to decide on

Emphasizes the conclusion of a decision-making process.

to determine

Suggests a more methodical or analytical approach to selection.

to designate

Implies formally choosing someone or something for a specific purpose.

to appoint

Specifically refers to selecting someone for a position or role.

to single out

Highlights the act of choosing one specific item from a larger group.

to handpick

Suggests a careful and selective approach to choosing, often implying high quality.

to cherry-pick

Implies selecting only the best or most advantageous options, sometimes with a negative connotation.

FAQs

What's a simple way to say "to select"?

You can often replace "to select" with simpler alternatives like "to choose" or "to pick" depending on the context.

How is "to select" different from "to choose"?

While similar, "to select" often implies a more careful or formal decision-making process than "to choose".

When should I use "to select" over other options?

Use "to select" when you want to emphasize a deliberate and thoughtful decision, especially in formal or professional contexts.

What are some professional alternatives to "to select"?

In professional settings, consider using phrases like "to opt for", "to designate", or "to appoint" as alternatives to "to select", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.