choice
/tʃɔɪs/
The word centers on the concept of agency and selection. It describes both the internal capacity to decide (the right to choose) and the external set of options available (the variety). In a positive context, it implies freedom, autonomy, and luxury ("a wide choice"). In more stressful contexts, it suggests a burden of responsibility or a dilemma where one must commit to a single path. When used as an adjective (though not listed in the POS here, it's a common nuance), "choice" refers to something of superior quality, like "a choice piece of meat," implying it was specifically selected for being the best.
Countable when referring to a specific decision made ('That was a brave choice'). Uncountable when referring to the general concept of having freedom or an assortment of options ('There is little choice in this matter' or 'The store offers a great choice of cheeses').
💬Casual Conversation
This vendor list is a nightmare. Too many choices, my head's spinning.
Just go with your gut, Jess. We need to pivot on this ASAP.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
free choice
The ability to make decisions without external constraint.
Everyone should have the free choice to pursue their dreams.
difficult choice
A decision that is hard to make due to competing factors or consequences.
It was a difficult choice between staying in his hometown and moving for a new job.
wise choice
A decision that is sensible and likely to lead to a good outcome.
Investing in education was a wise choice for her future.
limited choice
A situation where there are only a few options available.
In some remote areas, there is very limited choice of goods.
conscious choice
A decision made deliberately and with awareness.
Her decision to quit was a conscious choice she had considered for months.
Idioms & Sayings
make a choice
To decide between two or more possibilities.
You have to make a choice about which university to attend.
take the choice
To select an option.
She decided to take the choice of the more challenging project.
no choice but to
To be forced to do something because there are no other options.
He had no choice but to accept the offer.
the choice is yours
You have the freedom to decide what to do.
Whether you go or stay, the choice is yours.
a choice between A and B
A situation requiring a decision between two specific options.
It was a difficult choice between honesty and loyalty.
Etymology
The word 'choice' comes from the Old French word 'choisir', meaning 'to choose, to select'. This, in turn, derives from the Vulgar Latin causire, which is of uncertain origin, possibly related to the Latin 'caute' (carefully) or 'accipere' (to accept). The word entered Middle English around the 13th century as 'choys' or 'chese'. The spelling evolved to 'choice' by the 15th century, influenced by the French spelling. The verb 'to choose' has a similar etymological path, originating from the Old English 'chosan'.