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Select Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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select

[sɪˈlɛkt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

database query

To choose or pick something from a group of options.

Synonyms

choose, opt for, pick.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
select

Used in more formal or professional contexts, often when there are various options available and a thoughtful decision is required.

  • The panel will select the best candidate for the job
  • She wants to select a unique color for her dress
choose

Commonly used in everyday situations when making a decision between two or more things.

  • You can choose your favorite dessert from the menu
  • He has to choose between history and geography for his next semester
pick

More casual and informal, often used when the decision is quick or not very significant.

  • Can you pick a movie for us to watch tonight? He picked the blue shirt from his closet
opt for

Typically used when deciding on one option over another, often implying a preference or careful consideration.

  • They decided to opt for a smaller house
  • She opted for the vegetarian meal at the event

Examples of usage

  • I need to select the best candidate for the job.
  • Please select your preferred payment method.
Context #2 | Verb

computer programming

To highlight or choose a specific item on a computer screen.

Synonyms

choose, highlight, pick.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
select

Used in situations requiring a meticulous choice from a set of options, often in academic or professional settings.

  • The software allows users to select multiple files at once.
  • For this experiment, it is crucial to select the appropriate variables.
highlight

Used when emphasizing or bringing attention to something, often in text or speech.

  • Please highlight the most important sections in the report.
  • The presenter highlighted the key points of the study.
choose

Commonly used in everyday speech when expressing a decision or preference.

  • I can't decide which ice cream flavor to choose.
  • She chose to stay at home instead of going out.
pick

Casual and informal way to discuss making a choice, often used in everyday conversations.

  • You can pick any movie you want to watch tonight.
  • I'm having trouble picking a new book to read.

Examples of usage

  • Click on the file you want to select.
  • Use your mouse to select the text.
Context #3 | Noun

sports

A player who has been chosen to represent a team or country.

Synonyms

chosen player, representative.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
select

This word can also imply picking the best from a group, often with a sense of high quality or exclusivity.

  • We stayed at a select hotel during our trip to Paris.
  • The invitation-only gala was attended by a select group of VIPs.
chosen player

When referring specifically to a person who has been selected to participate, usually in sports or games.

  • John is the chosen player for the basketball team.
  • Every chosen player will receive a uniform and equipment.
representative

When referring to a person who acts on behalf of others, especially in official or formal situations.

  • She was elected as the student representative for her class.
  • The company's representative will attend the international conference.

Examples of usage

  • He is one of the top selects for the national team.
  • The coach announced the team selects for the upcoming match.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computer programming, 'select' refers to commands that allow users to choose data or options, crucial for database management.
  • Surveys and online forms often use 'select' options to gather data effectively.
  • User interfaces, like dropdown menus, frequently employ 'select' for better navigation.

Psychology

  • The act of selecting can be influenced by cognitive biases, affecting how we make decisions.
  • The process engages different areas of the brain, showcasing how choice can impact emotional responses.
  • Social factors also play a role, where group opinions can sway individual selections.

Arts

  • In literature, 'select' might describe a refined choice of words or themes, impacting the story's depth.
  • Artists often have to select from many techniques and styles, which shapes their unique voice.
  • In design, selecting colors or materials is vital to creating visually appealing artwork.

Education

  • In academic settings, students must selectively choose subjects or fields of study based on interests and career goals.
  • Teachers often encourage students to select their own projects to foster independence and creativity.
  • The process of selecting resources or books is crucial in developing effective curricula.

Origin of 'select'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'seligere', meaning 'to choose or pick out'.
  • It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, becoming more common with the rise of education and choice.
  • The modern usage has expanded to many contexts, from shopping to voting.

The word 'select' originated from the Latin word 'selectus', which means 'chosen' or 'picked out'. It first appeared in English in the 16th century. The concept of selection has always been important in various fields, from decision-making to sports teams. Over time, 'select' has become widely used in databases, computer programming, and everyday language to indicate making a choice or picking something. Its versatility and simplicity make it a common word in modern English.

See also: selected, selecting, selection, selective, selectively, selectiveness, selectivity, selector, selectwoman.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,645, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.