Another Word for Choose: 16 Synonyms with Examples
To choose is to pick one option from several. Alternatives show how careful, formal or official the choice is.
As a verb: pick from options
- select
- pick
- opt for
- decide on
- settle on
- go for
- single out
As a verb: appoint or elect
- elect
- appoint
- name
- nominate
- vote for
As a verb: prefer
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- select
- More formal; suggests careful choice.
- pick
- Informal and everyday.
- opt for
- Chooses one option over others.
- settle on
- Chooses after some time or debate.
- elect
- Chooses by voting.
- appoint
- Chooses someone officially for a job or role.
Example sentences
- select: Ten pupils were selected for the regional choir.
- pick: Pick any card from the pack.
- opt for: Most guests opted for the vegetarian menu.
- settle on: After much debate, we settled on a name for the dog.
- elect: The club elected a new chair at its annual meeting.
- appoint: The school has appointed a new head of maths.
Opposite of choose
- reject
- refuse
- decline
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “choose”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: take, opt
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “choose”?
The most useful alternatives are “select”, “pick”, “opt for”, “decide on”, “settle on”. For the main sense (pick from options), “select” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “select” and “pick”?
select: More formal; suggests careful choice. pick: Informal and everyday.
What is the opposite of “choose”?
Common antonyms are “reject”, “refuse”, “decline”.