Question posted by Marianne Freya Gutib on the Facebook page of the Forum (May 13, 2016):
Good afternoon, sir!
I would like to ask the difference in meaning between “select” (adjective) and “choice” (adjective). When do we use each word?
Thank you in advance!
My reply to Marianne:
The adjectives “choice” and “select” are generally synonymous in the sense of having been preferred from a number or group in terms of a particular attribute. The difference is in the degree and manner of selection. A choice candidate in a lackluster election lineup may be the best of the lot but not entirely desirable, but a select group of candidates is more judiciously winnowed to include only those with truly outstanding qualities and no known major undesirable attributes.
