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
• adaptor
• adjunct
• additive
• appendage
• attachment
• accessary
• enhancement
• equipment
• accoutrement
• accouterment
• accompaniment
• complement
• supplement
• subsidiary
• luxury
• auxiliary
• filler
• extra
• furnishings
• incidental
• trimming
• decoration
• ornament
• nonessential
• trappings
• embroidery
• nonnecessity
• habiliment(s)
• trim
• garnish
• adornment
• amenity
• 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
• pick
• selection
• liberty
• vote
• election
• discretion
• volition
• will
• druthers
• say
• determination
• voice
• free will
• liking
• tendency
• inclination
• predilection
• judgement
• 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

Reese Witherspoon’s Outfit Blueprint Witherspoon’s skirt is a classic style every closet should have, and this $24 Amazon option reminds us of her pick. —Nicol Natale, People.com, 7 Aug. 2025

Since totes are larger than most handbags, designer options usually come with even higher prices than our favorite crossbody bags. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 7 Aug. 2025

Advanced users were given the option of several versions of those models, all of which had advantages and disadvantages. —Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 7 Aug. 2025

Left to find another option, this child care center found itself in the Wild West — a rapidly shrinking market where affordable options are few and far between. —Beki San Martin, Freep.com, 7 Aug. 2025