Definition of optionnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun option contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of option are alternative, choice, election, preference, and selection. While all these words mean "the act or opportunity of choosing or the thing chosen," option implies a power to choose that is specifically granted or guaranteed.

the option of paying now or later

When is it sensible to use alternative instead of option?

In some situations, the words alternative and option are roughly equivalent. However, alternative implies a need to choose one and reject another possibility.

equally attractive alternatives

When could choice be used to replace option?

The words choice and option are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, choice suggests the opportunity or privilege of choosing freely.

freedom of choice

When is election a more appropriate choice than option?

The meanings of election and option largely overlap; however, election implies an end or purpose which requires exercise of judgment.

doing a tax return forces certain elections on you

Where would preference be a reasonable alternative to option?

While the synonyms preference and option are close in meaning, preference suggests a choice guided by one's judgment or predilections.

a preference for cool weather

When would selection be a good substitute for option?

Although the words selection and option have much in common, selection implies a range of choice.

a varied selection of furniture

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of option If someone hesitates, gently restate the goal and offer one reasonable option while staying loyal to your own needs. Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 6 July 2026 On the investor call following the announcement, McCall said the sale reflects years of the ITV board weighing its strategic options — and that Sky was ITV’s preferred partner from the start. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 6 July 2026 Rogers had an option to buy the Kilmer stake this summer, and Staffieri has publicly said many times the company would exercise the option. Kurt Badenhausen, Sportico.com, 6 July 2026 Choice for the full-time employee, and in economies where options are scarce. Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for option
Recent Examples of Synonyms for option
Noun
  • The designer recently also unveiled a Net-a-porter exclusive footwear capsule with Manolo Blahnik, which combines Blahnik’s craftsmanship across shoes and accessories with Wickstead’s feminine and detailed approach to womenswear.
    Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 3 July 2026
  • That means all the important stuff, along with some smaller accessories like weather-resistant furniture covers.
    Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 3 July 2026
Noun
  • Miltos’ Greek Table at Andronis Luxury Suites is the Oia choice for travelers who want romance.
    Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
  • Vic makes some baffling choices here, buzzing in twice on the first word in the series without hearing the rest, and getting eliminated from multiple rounds five seconds in.
    Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • Texas lawmakers passed a broad blue law in 1961 that prohibited the sale of 42 categories of goods, including clothing, appliances, housewares and hardware, on both Saturday and Sunday.
    Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 July 2026
  • Journeymen plumbers have demonstrated competence across water supply systems, sanitary drainage and venting, storm drainage, gas piping and appliance connections, and heating systems.
    Ryan Craig, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • In a statement, an AT&T spokesperson said modern alternatives to copper hold up better during disasters and said landline service wouldn’t be discontinued until at least June 1, 2027.
    Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 7 July 2026
  • The fact that a 32-year-old Fabinho has been looked to from the bench tells its own story, but the youthful profiles of Danilo Santos and Ederson do provide alternatives that would be deserving of more minutes in the United States.
    Mark Carey, New York Times, 6 July 2026
Noun
  • The idea was to bring the party outside and into the light, with a 46,000 square-feet alfresco add-on; a slice of European beach club located directly alongside the Strip.
    Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
  • Some pest control companies might include them in general pest control, whereas others include them in higher-tier plans or offer rat and mouse extermination as an add-on specialty service.
    Alora Bopray, USA Today, 1 July 2026
Noun
  • These distinct sauce styles are all rooted in traditions that developed in the coastal South, influenced by shifting populations, regional preferences, and supply chains.
    Amethyst Ganaway, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 July 2026
  • As carbuyers' preferences have shifted, pricier vehicles have become the norm at dealerships, leaving budget-conscious shoppers with fewer affordable models to choose from.
    Mike Winters, CNBC, 1 July 2026
Noun
  • Ahead, everything to know about this beachside favorite, along with refreshing ways to style this timeless look all summer long.
    Katherine J Igoe, InStyle, 2 July 2026
  • Still, the way the ordinance is worded also prohibits teaching yoga for free, Pease pointed out.
    Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Option.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/option. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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