Word: eclectic (adjective)

Associations

"Eclectic" means choosing or using ideas, style, or taste from a wide range of sources. It is often used to describe something or someone that does not stick to one single style or idea but mixes many.

• She has an eclectic taste in music. (She likes many different kinds of music.)
• The restaurant’s menu is eclectic, offering dishes from many countries. (The menu includes many styles of food.)
• His decorating style is eclectic, combining modern and vintage furniture. (He mixes different styles in decoration.)

Synonym: "diverse" — but "eclectic" usually means a thoughtful or deliberate mix from many sources, while "diverse" just means varied or different.

Substitution

You can replace "eclectic" with:

• varied (less specific, just means many different kinds)
• mixed (informal, means combined)
• diverse (more general, means different types)

Example: "She has a varied taste in music." (Similar but less focused on careful selection.)

Deconstruction

The word "eclectic" comes from Greek "eklektikos," from "eklegein," meaning "to select."

• "Ek-" means "out" or "from"
• "Legere" means "to pick" or "to choose" So, "eclectic" literally means "choosing from."

Inquiry

• Can you think of a place you have visited that had an eclectic style or mix of things?
• What kind of music or food would you describe as eclectic in your culture?
• How does having an eclectic taste help or challenge someone in making choices?