DictionaryAI

choose

CHOOZ/t͡ʃuːz/

Formschooses, choosing, chose, chosen

6 meanings of choose

Practice

  1. 1
    pick oneverbtransitive or intransitive
    To pick someone or something from two or more possibilities.

    Like picking your favorite candy from a jar full of different kinds.

    Please choose a book from the shelf before bedtime.

    She chose the red dress for the party.

    Usagechoose between two things, choose from many. Past forms: chose, chosen.

    Similarpick, select

    Oppositereject

    Note
  2. 2
    decide to actverbtransitive
    To decide to do something in a certain way.

    Like deciding to take one road instead of another.

    You can choose to stay home if you feel sick.

    She chose to walk instead of taking the bus.

    UsageSay choose to do something: chose to walk.

    Similardecide, opt, elect, prefer

    Note
  3. 3
    as you likeverbtransitive or intransitive
    To want something or like it more than other things.

    Like wanting an apple more than an orange when both are offered.

    Stay as long as you choose.

    You can call me any time you choose.

    UsageOften in as you choose or if you choose.

    Similarprefer, wish, like, please, want

    Note

Less common meanings

  1. 4
    conjunction
    Used as in 'six choose two': how many ways you can pick two things from a group of six.
  2. 5
    nounobsoleteNorthern EnglandScotland
    The act of picking one thing instead of others.
  3. 6
    nounobsoleteNorthern EnglandScotland
    The right or power to pick what you want.

Practice

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Origin

From Old English ċēosan, "to choose," which goes back to an ancient root meaning "to taste or try."

Checked 1 Nov 2026 · 3 facts