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 The earlier the diagnosis, the more options people have. Jim Taylor, Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2025 DraftKings Sportsbook should be a go-to option for UFC fans on Saturday night. Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 June 2025 Ukraine said all of them went into exile voluntarily, as part of a government scheme that gives anyone convicted of collaborating with Russia the option of being sent there. Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 8 June 2025 If finding indoor shelter is not an option: Avoid open fields, the top of a hill, or a ridge top. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 8 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for option
Recent Examples of Synonyms for option
Noun
  • Trophies and rings are the renowned physical marks of success in American sports, but there’s an accessory that has become just as prevalent in championship-winning locker rooms as the shine of platinum or gold: ‘champagne goggles’.
    Elias Burke, New York Times, 8 June 2025
  • The trend is a light-hearted, playful style that can be worn as an accessory.
    Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 6 June 2025
Noun
  • That’s life, and that something that also drove our artistic choices to a heartwarming visual style, retaining proximity with our main character throughout her ups and downs that also manifest in the film’s palette.
    Kevin Giraud, Variety, 8 June 2025
  • Without swift Congressional action, millions could lose their health coverage, and small business owners could face devastating financial choices — all in an economic climate already fraught with uncertainty.
    Brewster Bevis, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 June 2025
Noun
  • If time permits, disconnect utilities and appliances.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 7 June 2025
  • These super-computing facilities have become an important component of modern life, powering everything from smart home appliances to social media to AI chatbots.
    Thomas Grizzetti, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
Noun
  • But China can be very rural outside its cities, and charging availability unreliable, so having fossil fuel as an alternative makes sense.
    James Morris, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
  • For a quick alternative, try this metal four-pack magnetic spice storage rack.
    Nora Colomer may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 7 June 2025
Noun
  • Sun also disclosed his $45 million add-on investment.
    Dan Alexander, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • Blanket Partnerships will operate through a retainer contract, one-off projects and add-ons to its existing clientele, who may need a helping hand from time to time with special projects.
    Hikmat Mohammed, Footwear News, 9 June 2025
Noun
  • And one of the fastest ways to lose it is poor communication.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
  • The difficulty is knowing where to look when a landscape is constantly changing in unpredictable ways.
    Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 7 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Option.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/option. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on option

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