when selecting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when selecting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of choosing or picking something from a set of options. Example: "When selecting a candidate for the job, it is important to consider their experience and skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She agonizes when selecting an artist.

The New Yorker

He emphasizes collective effort, especially when selecting Mexico's lineup.

The New York Times - Sports

When selecting music, we use a coffeehouse filter".

The New York Times - Arts

It's the same when selecting enterprise software.

TechCrunch

When selecting mutual funds, most investors look to past performance.

Forbes

Factors to consider when selecting network hardware include the following.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

However, care must be taken when selecting the examples.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

Be creative when selecting interior light fixtures.

Huffington Post

When selecting work options, they are in the driver's seat.

Huffington Post

This is often overlooked when selecting a wedding photographer.

Huffington Post

6. Meal Plan Mistakes Be realistic when selecting meal plans.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or guidelines, use "when selecting" to clearly indicate the moment of choice. For example, "When selecting a font, consider readability."

Common error

Avoid using "when selection" instead of "when selecting". "Selection" is a noun, while "selecting" is a verb in its present participle form. The phrase "when selection" is grammatically incorrect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when selecting" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying the main clause by specifying when an action should be performed or a consideration should be made. Ludwig confirms that this is a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

35%

News & Media

27%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when selecting" serves as an effective adverbial clause, guiding actions at the point of choosing. As affirmed by Ludwig, its grammatical structure is correct, and it commonly appears across diverse sources such as news, science, and wiki articles. Be mindful to avoid the common error of using the noun form "selection" in its place. Remember to always follow the best practice of employing "when selecting" to provide clear guidance. Alternatives include "in the selection process" or "choosing", yet "when selecting" is particularly suitable when emphasizing specific actions or considerations during selection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

selecting

This is the bare gerund form and thus is a very succinct synonym.

choosing

This is a simpler, more direct alternative using the gerund form of the verb.

while choosing

Similar to "when selecting" but uses 'while' to indicate simultaneity.

in the selection process

This phrase is more formal and highlights the entire procedure of choosing.

during selection

This alternative focuses on the time period in which the selection occurs.

in choosing

Focuses on the act of choosing as a general concept.

upon selection

This phrase emphasizes the moment or event of selection rather than the process.

as you select

This alternative uses a more direct and personal tone.

on choosing

This version subtly shifts the focus to the point of making a decision.

the selection of

Emphasizes the outcome of the selection process rather than the act itself.

FAQs

How can I use "when selecting" in a sentence?

The phrase "when selecting" is used to indicate a point in time during the process of choosing something. For instance, "Consider the price "when selecting" a new car."

What are some alternatives to "when selecting"?

You can use phrases like "in the selection process", "during selection", or simply "choosing" as alternatives to "when selecting", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "when selecting" or "during selection"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but ""when selecting"" often implies a specific action or consideration during the selection process, while "during selection" refers to the entire period of choosing.

Can I replace "when selecting" with "if you select"?

While both phrases relate to selection, ""when selecting"" implies a process that is already underway or expected to occur, whereas "if you select" introduces a condition. For example, "When selecting a gift, consider the recipient's interests" versus "If you select this option, you will receive a discount".