Decide vs. Choose

These verbs are synonyms but emphasize different aspects. Follow the lesson to learn their difference.

What is the difference between 'decide' and 'choose'?

To 'choose' means to prefer to take a particular course of action from among the options available. To 'decide', on the other hand, means to reach a conclusion after considering all factors and emphasizes the outcome of the decision. This lesson will discuss the differences between these two verbs.

Difference in Emphasis

The verb 'choose' emphasizes the presence of multiple options or alternatives. When you choose, you consider different possibilities and make a decision to select one specific course of action among them based on personal preference, judgment, or a set of criteria. 'Decide', however, focuses on the act of reaching a conclusion in a particular situation. It emphasizes the process of making up one's mind or settling on a specific choice or course of action. Deciding places emphasis on the outcome or impact of the decision on the situation at hand. Here are some examples:

She chose to stay in the countryside.

'Choose' emphasizes that there were other options available and staying in the countryside was the one the subject preferred.

She decided to stay in the countryside.

They chose to start their own business rather than working for someone else.

They decided to move to a different city.