This group of words can be very confusing for learners because they are so close but so far. If you use them in the wrong context, it will immediately sound off for a native speaker. Of course, many other groups of words are like that in English, but let’s focus on this group today. Whether we say select or opt depends on small differences about the options themselves.
Choose is the most neutral word: use it for formal and informal situations
I am so glad that I chose to study English every day because I notice improvements.
= I am happy that I studied English when I had two choices: study English or do not study English.
Choosing what to wear in the morning can be difficult.
= It is difficult to make the correct choice between the many clothing combinations.
Select is slightly more formal and usually implies a longer list of options
You can select many different types of pastries at our bakery.
= There is a large variety of pastries you can choose here.
Please select a username.
= Type a username from the among the infinite options for usernames.
OR
= Click on the username among the several we provide.
Pick is very informal and creates the image of pointing with a finger
Originally, this word means to poke something with your finger.
Ex: You should not pick your scabs.
You should not pick your nose in front of other people.
There are so many candies to choose from; I can’t pick just one!
= There are many choices, and it is difficult just to point at one and say “I want that!”
I’m always picked last when we play sports in PE class.
= When we choose who will be on teams, I am the last choice of other students.
There is an expression “pick and choose,” which shows that pick is not about the decision process usually. It is more focused on the moment where you distinguish something as a candidate.
Opt (for) is usually formal and adds a nuance of making a choice between two definite and distinct branches
Parents who are not comfortable with their children eating school lunch can opt for lunch brought from home.
= If a parent does not the child to eat school food, the part can take another path, sending the child to school with lunch. There are two choices that never overlap: school lunch or lunch from home.
If you think the phone is too expensive, you can opt for a phone with less storage.
= There are two choices that cannot be changed: a phone with a lot of storage or a phone with not a lot of storage.
In summary:
- choose: the neutral word that can replace any of the other words
- select: a more formal word that usually has a list of options
- pick: an informal word that emphasizes pointing with your finger to make a decision at that moment
- opt (for): a formal word about making a choice among two that cannot be undone
Hopefully that clears up some confusion about these words. They are all different in small ways. When we natives decide select or opt, it wasn’t random. There is logic and reason to our choices. Now, you will be able to make the right decision among these similar vocab words.
If you want to learn more about language learning and improving your language skills, check out my YouTube channel for more useful tips. I would appreciate if you select or opt for my videos.
Keep on studying! I hope you choose the best words for your English sentences!
