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 Barriers like highways, fencing, border walls and other development projects threaten to leave roaming species without the option to expand, ultimately leading to localized extinction. John Leos, AZCentral.com, 3 Sep. 2025 Kushikatsu options include everything from chicken, pork, and shrimp to eggplant, quail egg, and cherry tomato. Lennie Omalza, The Courier-Journal, 3 Sep. 2025 Take a look at all your options below. Grace Tucker, Cincinnati Enquirer, 3 Sep. 2025 None of those are options that are available for Labour. Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for option
Recent Examples of Synonyms for option
Noun
  • This roomy backpack offers plenty of space for your laptop, along with front-zip and side pockets for all your travel accessories.
    Kayla Kitts, Travel + Leisure, 7 Sep. 2025
  • Extra Winter Accessories Your coat closet shouldn't be bursting at the seam with outwear accessories, either.
    Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 6 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • This grew far beyond the typical choice routes coming out of the backfield.
    Jacob Robinson, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2025
  • Red twig dogwood Red twig dogwood is another great choice.
    Chris McKeown, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 5 Sep. 2025
  • If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • While some large enterprises with complex estates are adapting to the changes, many mid-market and regional operators view the new structure as untenable and are actively exploring alternatives.
    Steve McDowell, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2025
  • Pinspark Half-zip Sweater Set A few savvy shoppers have found a $38 alternative to the viral, over-$200 Spanx AirEssentials sweatsuit loved by the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Oprah.
    Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 1 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Parmigiano Reggiano will also be available as an add-on at designated Delaware North Nonna Fusco’s Kitchen stands throughout MetLife Stadium.
    Tim Newcomb, Forbes.com, 6 Sep. 2025
  • Treat returns intelligence as a core function, not an add-on.
    Footwear News, Footwear News, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Bitcoin will probably indeed come to save us from fiat money, and thereby restore normal portfolio preferences across the board, including in real estate.
    Brian Domitrovic, Forbes.com, 6 Sep. 2025
  • Even while rejecting many of the Administration’s demands, Harvard has in recent months made moves that share something of the flavor of the Administration’s preferences, beyond addressing antisemitism.
    Jeannie Suk Gersen, New Yorker, 6 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Things seemed to be going Sporting KC’s way in the first half of a Sunday night matchup with fellow Western Conference playoff hopeful Austin FC.
    Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Some of these technologies are essential for ensuring the proper functioning of the service or website and cannot be disabled, while others are optional but serve to enhance the user experience in various ways.
    Matthew Strauss, Pitchfork, 8 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Option.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/option. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on option

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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