escolha
/esˈkoʎɐ/
Definition
A decision made by picking one thing from several options; the act of choosing.
Example
Você fez uma boa escolha para o jantar.
Show translation
You made a good choice for dinner.
Etymology
From the verb *escolher* ("to choose"), which derives from Vulgar Latin *excolligere* — a compound of *ex-* (out) + *colligere* (to gather, collect). The idea is literally "to gather out" the best option from a group.
Cultural note
In Brazilian Portuguese, *escolha* is ubiquitous in everyday speech, advertising ("Faça sua escolha!" — "Make your choice!"), and politics. In European Portuguese the word is identical, though intonation and rhythm differ slightly. Don't confuse it with *eleição* (election/formal vote) — both involve choosing, but *eleição* is institutional while *escolha* is personal and informal.