choose wisely — select carefully
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
To make a decision or pick something after thinking carefully about it, so you avoid mistakes or problems.
Say it like a native
Textbook It is incumbent upon you to select with prudent deliberation.
Native Choose wisely.
'Select with prudent deliberation' is pompous; 'choose wisely' is pithy and natural.
Pattern: choose wisely
In use
- When buying a new laptop, it's important to choose wisely so you get the best value for your money.daily life
- In my opinion, people should choose wisely when deciding on a career, because it can affect their whole life.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ You must choose wise.
✓ You must choose wisely.
Use the adverb 'wisely', not the adjective 'wise'.
Common collocations
choose / spend wisely— choose, spend, invest, use your time
Don't confuse it
Different from just 'choose', which does not suggest careful thought.