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 Best Quantum Fiber plans Quantum Fiber offers various plans, with the cheapest option starting at $45 a month. Kara McGinley, USA Today, 21 June 2025 For a budget option, try the Micanopy Inn, or take the 20-minute drive to Gainesville for a variety of hotel options. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 21 June 2025 What are Israel’s options if Trump decides against US involvement? Jennifer Griffin, FOXNews.com, 21 June 2025 So, bringing up the subject to her is not an option. R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for option
Recent Examples of Synonyms for option
Noun
  • The far end of the bar has four seats for customers with reservations who want to do a traditional tasting with ceramic accessories.
    Devorah Lev-Tov, Vogue, 20 June 2025
  • For accessories, Keke wore golden jewelry, a gold purse, and matching platform sandals.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • Fox’s lips were painted in a gray-nude glossy shade, a neutral choice to complement her pale, even-toned base.
    Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 1 July 2025
  • This focus aligns with their desire to generate positive societal and environmental impacts through their investment choices.
    Hemanth Golla, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 30 June 2025
  • If time permits, disconnect utilities and appliances.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • Many corporations will pay premiums for clean solutions because the alternative is expensive regulatory penalties.
    Nicole LeBlanc, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Devonian’s products potentially provide an alternative.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • The Bundesliga side are expected to pay in the region of £30million plus add-ons for the 22-year-old central defender.
    Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 22 June 2025
  • There’s a Chrome extension and an add-on for Firefox.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • Make your own watch classes that include taking one home begin at about $2,000 and run all the way the over $19,000 for the tourbillion.
    Larry Olmsted, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Or maybe the closures were economically motivated, just not in the way they’re being framed, said Scott Nova, executive director of the Worker Rights Consortium.
    Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 1 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Option.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/option. Accessed 5 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on option

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