How to Say "Good Choice" in Italian

ottima scelta

The Italian phrase for good choice is ottima scelta.

This phrase is used to tell someone that they have made a wise or satisfactory decision.

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase ottima scelta literally translates to excellent choice.

While the literal translation of 'good choice' is buona scelta, using ottima scelta increases the intensity from 'good' to 'excellent' or 'great'.

The noun scelta is a feminine noun. Because of this, the adjectives must agree with it and end in -a, such as ottima or buona.

Italians use the expression scelta obbligata to describe a 'forced choice'. This refers to a situation where only one option is actually viable, making the act of choosing an illusion.
The adjective ottima comes from the Latin 'optimus', which is the superlative form of 'good'. This means that when you say ottima scelta, you are linguistically saying 'the best possible choice' rather than just 'a very good choice'.
While ottima scelta is a compliment, the phrase scelta azzardata is used for unconventional decisions. It translates to a 'risky choice' and signals that the speaker finds the decision daring or strange.

Ottima scelta, complimenti per aver scelto quella strategia
Excellent choice, compliments on choosing that strategy
Hai fatto un'ottima scelta con questa macchina!
You made an excellent choice with this car!
Ottima scelta, questo vino è delizioso.
Good choice, this wine is delicious.
Hai preso il tavolo fuori? Ottima scelta!
You took the outdoor table? Good choice!
Quella macchina è un'ottima scelta per la città.
That car is a good choice for the city.

Alessandro and Chiara are choosing a movie to watch.

Alessandro

Guarda questo film di fantascienza.
Look at this science fiction movie.
Chiara

Sì, guardiamolo!
Yes, let's watch it!
Alessandro

Ottima scelta, Chiara.
Good choice, Chiara.
Chiara

Grazie, Alessandro.
Thank you, Alessandro.

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