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 These likewise have options for increasing the RAM and storage or accessing more powerful Intel Core Ultra V-series chips. Jorge Jimenez, PC Magazine, 10 Sep. 2025 An aggravating predawn departure was the only option. Denise Snodell, Kansas City Star, 10 Sep. 2025 And with the aircraft manufacturing industry effectively a duopoly between Boeing and Airbus, options are limited. Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 9 Sep. 2025 The most viable option to advance with the bill, said Portela, is to merge it with another bill also dealing with VOD regulation. Marcelo Cajueiro, Variety, 9 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for option
Recent Examples of Synonyms for option
Noun
  • While planning our outfits for our fickle Southern weather might be a challenge at times, there’s one accessory that is always needed during the season.
    Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Turns out Stephano was pondering beltmaking too, leading the two to partner on a new business venture creating small-batch leather pieces and metal accessories.
    Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 12 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The glamorous look is more daring than Robbie's usual red carpet choices, but stands out as a striking entry in the naked dress trend.
    Charles Trepany, USA Today, 13 Sep. 2025
  • The choice is still ours to make.
    Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 12 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Typhur’s new Sync appliances change that equation entirely.
    Matt Emma, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025
  • The price of dishwashers, along with most appliances, has seen a long-term, shallow downward trend, making such purchases even more affordable.
    Jeremy Lott, The Washington Examiner, 12 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Experts argue that developing sustainable alternatives, such as reusable masks made from biodegradable materials, should be a priority.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Luckily, there are plenty of butter alternatives for cooking and baking.
    Ann Pietrangelo, Verywell Health, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Its cellular Starlink system, which spans over 650 satellites, has already been delivering service through T-Mobile's T-Satellite add-on plan, including support for text messages and even satellite data for mobile apps.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Other experts say that, while larger studies are still needed, the new investigation suggests a promising add-on to existing preventive measures, especially for patients already relying on nasal sprays for allergy relief.
    Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Every individual brings unique needs, preferences and strengths.
    Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025
  • Before the Euros, players were asked to rank their penalty preference from one to 11.
    Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 13 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 14 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on option

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