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

To a neutral observer, the answer seems obvious: With President Donald Trump intent on funding his own tax cuts in part through drastic cuts to the revenue flowing to states, this is no time to be carving away options that could help Florida weather the coming storm. —Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 May 2025

Why didn’t the Reds acquire better outfield options? —C. Trent Rosecrans, New York Times, 16 May 2025

Favorite Ways To Serve Meatballs Simple dinners: Recreating the signature scene of Lady and the Tramp with a big platter of spaghetti and meatballs is one of countless options to put this budget-friendly beef to work. —Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 16 May 2025

To offer their clients maximum filming comfort and options all year round, Forma Pro Films has also built post-COVID its own infrastructure, one of Europe’s largest LED Unit studios. —Annika Pham, Variety, 16 May 2025