in choosing / when choosing / while choosing

[Magic Dragon]

I'd appreciate it if someone would answer my question. Thanks in advance.

Which is correct? (Sorry, no context.)

A; Be careful in choosing a present.

B; Be careful when choosing a present.

C; Be careful while choosing a present.

[Alan]

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Hi MD,

They are all perfectly acceptable but have slightly different meanings.

'In choosing' refers to a general piece of advice

'When choosing' suggests be careful when the time comes to choose.

'While choosing' refers to that particular time as you are choosing.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Communicating with you?

[Magic Dragon]

－Hi, Alan. Sorry to be late replying. I have a question as to your idea. You said; 'In choosing' refers to a general piece of advice.
So can't we say "I was not so considerate in choosing a present."?

[Alan]

Hi MD,

Yes, it works also in the negative.

Alan
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English as a Foreign Language
You can read my EFL story Good Bye Summer

[Magic Dragon]

Hi, Alan. What I mean is that my sample; "I was not so considerate in choosing a present." isn't used for a general piece of advice but a specific case.

Is "in choosing" used only for a general piece of advice?