Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

Thesaurus

alternative

noun

Synonyms and Antonyms of alternative

the power, right, or opportunity to choose

  • thereʼs no alternative: we must cross the stream to reach our destination
Synonyms of alternative

choice, discretion, druthers [dialect], election, liberty, option, pick, preference, selection, volition, way
Words Related to alternative

determination, free will, will

say, voice, vote

inclination, liking, partiality, penchant, predilection, proclivity, propensity, tendency

discernment, judgment (or judgement), perspicacity
Near Antonyms of alternative

coercion, duress, force

duty, obligation

Hobson's choice

Synonym Discussion of alternative

choice, option, alternative, preference, selection, election mean the act or opportunity of choosing or the thing chosen. choice suggests the opportunity or privilege of choosing freely.
    • freedom of choice
option implies a power to choose that is specifically granted or guaranteed.
    • the option of paying now or later
alternative implies a need to choose one and reject another possibility.
    • equally attractive alternatives
preference suggests a choice guided by one's judgment or predilections.
    • a preference for cool weather
selection implies a range of choice.
    • a varied selection of furniture
election implies an end or purpose which requires exercise of judgment.
    • doing a tax return forces certain elections on you

Learn More about alternative

  1. Dictionary: Definition of alternative Medical Dictionary: Definition of alternative Spanish Central: Translation of alternative Nglish: Translation of alternative for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of alternative for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about alternative

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up alternative? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show comments hide comments

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games