selection

/sɪˈlɛkʃən/
noun★Intermediate
formal

The act of choosing or the result of choosing from a group or number; a range of items available for choosing.

The selection of candidates for the job was impressive.

The range of candidates for the job was impressive.

The restaurant offers a wide selection of desserts.

The restaurant offers a wide range of desserts.

💡

Often used in formal or professional contexts to describe choices or options.

Collocations

selection processthe steps or methods used to choose someone or somethingselection criteriathe standards or rules used to make a choiceselection committeea group of people responsible for choosing someone or something

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

make a selectionphrase
to choose something from a group of options
selection biasphrase
a statistical error caused by the way a sample is chosen

💡Pro Tip

Countable vs. Uncountable

Use 'a selection' when referring to a specific group of items (countable) and 'selection' without an article when referring to the act of choosing (uncountable).

⚡Gold Rule

Formal vs. Informal

Use 'selection' in formal contexts, such as job applications or professional settings. In informal contexts, 'choice' or 'pick' may be more appropriate.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'selectioun,' from Latin 'selectio,' meaning 'a choosing,' from 'selectus,' past participle of 'seligere,' meaning 'to choose.'

📝Usage Notes

Can be used as a countable or uncountable noun. As a countable noun, it refers to a specific group of items chosen; as an uncountable noun, it refers to the act of choosing.

Word Breakdown

select
to choose
root
+
-ion
the act of
suffix
English Dictionary