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Radio Button
RAY-dee-oh BUH-tuhn
Definitions
1
Technology Β· Interface
Common
A circular interface element allowing users to select one option from a group. Unlike checkboxes, radio buttons are mutually exclusive.
Used in digital contexts to represent form elements, surveys, or selection options in user interfaces.
Please select your preferred payment method π Credit card βͺ PayPal
Online form or survey
Represents the physical buttons on older radios that could be pushed in to select a station, with only one selectable at a time.
2
Communication Β· Emphasis
Uncommon
Used metaphorically to indicate a choice being made, a decision point, or to emphasize a selected option in conversation.
Sometimes used in casual messaging to highlight a choice or preference.
I'm definitely going with the blue one π
Messaging apps
In digital communication, represents decision-making or emphasizing a specific choice.
Cultural Context
Named after physical radio buttons that allowed only one station selection at a time, reflecting the same mutual exclusivity in digital interfaces.
The term 'radio button' persists in UI design despite many users never having used physical radio devices with such buttons.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Used primarily in practical contexts related to actual form elements or surveys.
Gen_Z: Rarely used except in practical contexts like sharing screenshots of forms or surveys.
Older: Limited usage, mostly in practical contexts when discussing digital interfaces.
Millennials: Occasionally used when discussing choices or selections, particularly in work contexts.
Common Combinations
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Confirming a selection or choice has been made
Used in digital contexts to indicate completion of a selection process
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Instructing someone to select or click an option
Common in tutorial contexts or when giving digital instructions