Synonyms of option

option

noun

ˈäp-shən 

1

as in accessory

something that is not necessary in itself but adds to the convenience or performance of the main piece of equipment

a slew of options that would add several thousand dollars to the base price of the car

Synonyms & Similar Words

• accessory
• appliance
• add-on
• adapter
• adjunct
• appendage
• attachment
• additive
• equipment
• enhancement
• accompaniment
• complement
• accoutrement
• amenity
• supplement
• subsidiary
• luxury
• auxiliary
• filler
• extra
• furnishings
• incidental
• trimming
• decoration
• ornament
• trappings
• habiliment(s)
• nonnecessity
• embroidery
• garnish
• trim
• adornment
• nonessential
• appurtenances
• bells and whistles
• embellishment
• frill
• paraphernalia
• doodad

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• requirement
• essential
• necessity
• requisite

2

as in choice

the power, right, or opportunity to choose

you will have the option to select one of several quite different health insurance plans

Synonyms & Similar Words

• choice
• alternative
• preference
• way
• selection
• pick
• liberty
• vote
• election
• discretion
• volition
• will
• druthers
• say
• determination
• voice
• free will
• liking
• tendency
• inclination
• predilection
• propensity
• judgment
• penchant
• proclivity
• partiality
• discernment
• perspicacity

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• force
• coercion
• obligation
• duty
• duress
• Hobson's choice

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

Recent Examples of option

And since this is set to be one of spring’s hottest trends, a chic, all-white option is a must. —Kaelin Dodge, InStyle, 22 Feb. 2026

So far, Hy-Vee offers 15 dietary options for customers to choose from, including Egg Roll in a Bowl, Braised Beef and Herb Roasted Chicken. —Emery Glover, Des Moines Register, 22 Feb. 2026

Research your rebooking options and alternative itineraries in advance, and take advantage of airlines' self-service tools to avoid long lines at airport agent desks or long hold times on the phone. —Eve Chen, USA Today, 22 Feb. 2026

Campsites include water, electric, and sewer hookups, with ADA-accessible restrooms, showers, laundry, and a camp store with a wide variety of food options. —Carrie Honaker, Travel + Leisure, 22 Feb. 2026