What is select? Pronunciation and usage in English

select means . Learn how to pronounce and use select through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of select

selectverb

/sɪˈlɛkt/
Definition & pronunciation of select

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "select." It's a tricky one for some people! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈsɛlekt/ (pronounced: SEH-lekt)

Let's break that down further:

  • ˈ: This symbol (stress mark) indicates that the first syllable is the stressed syllable – it's louder and longer.
  • sɛ: This syllable is pronounced like "set" but with the 'e' sound as in "bed." It’s a slightly more drawn-out sound.
  • lekt: This syllable is pronounced like "lekt" – very similar to the word "lect."

Here’s a more detailed breakdown with phonetics (using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA):

  • /sɪ/ – Sounds like "sih" as in "sit" – this represents the "e" sound
  • /lekt/ – Sounds like "lekt" as in "lect" (as in lecturer).

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don’t say “sel-ekt.” This is a very common mistake. It’s the "sel" part that trips people up.
  • Focus on the "set" sound at the beginning. Think of "set" followed by "lekt".
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it spoken. Here are some resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "select"?

Usage and examples with the word select in English

Let's break down how to use the word "select" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings and ways to incorporate it into your sentences.

1. As a Verb (Choosing Carefully):

  • Core Meaning: "Select" primarily means to choose or pick something from a group or collection, usually with care or intention. It implies a deliberate decision, not just a random pick.

    • Examples:
      • "I need to select the best photos for the slideshow." (Choosing carefully)
      • "The committee will select a new CEO." (Making a thoughtful choice)
      • "Please select your favorite ice cream flavor." (Asking someone to choose deliberately)
      • "She selected a beautiful dress for the party." (Picked out a specific dress)

  • Variations:

    • Selection: (noun - the act of choosing or the chosen items) - "The selection of wines was impressive."
    • Selectively: (adverb - doing something carefully and choosing specific things) - “He selectively accepted invitations to social events.”

2. As a Noun (The Chosen Item):

  • Meaning: "Selection" refers to the group of items chosen from a larger collection. It's what resulted from the act of selecting.

    • Examples:
      • "The store offers a wide selection of books." (Referring to the range of books available)
      • "I’m looking for a specific selection of vintage stamps." (The particular stamps I want)
      • "The chef’s selection of appetizers was fantastic.” (The chosen appetizers)

3. Other Common Uses & Phrases:

  • Select a candidate: To choose someone for a job or position.
  • Select a topic: To choose a subject for discussion or writing.
  • Select a time: To choose a specific time for something.
  • Select the appropriate tool: To choose the right instrument or method for a task.
  • “Select from the following options”: This phrase is often used in forms or questionnaires.

Tips for Using "Select" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "select" will always depend on the context of the sentence.
  • Synonyms: Consider alternatives like "choose," "pick," "opt for," or “determine” depending on the nuance you want.

Would you like me to:

  • Give you more examples of "select" in different contexts?
  • Help you write a sentence using "select"?
  • Explain how "select" differs from words like "choose" or "pick"?

Synonyms for the word select

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