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

Examples 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 Just be mindful that this option comes with a few limitations, including: The 529 plan account must be at least 15 years old; there's a lifetime rollover limit of $35,000; and the conversion counts towards the annual Roth IRA contribution limit. Amy Wagner and Steve Hruby, The Enquirer, 6 Nov. 2024 Ultra-large televisions still aren’t cheap: Many of the options range in price between $1,699 to $2,999, and Best Buy is offering free delivery plus installation with purchase. Jordan Valinsky, CNN, 5 Nov. 2024 Kentucky asks for the same, but offers multiple options for voters without a license. Patricia Gallagher Newberry, The Enquirer, 31 Oct. 2024 Consider options like broth, juice, bananas, toast, fruits, vegetables, oatmeal, yogurt, and more. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for option 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for option
Noun
  • For many, the holidays are the most joyful time of the year, and there is no better way to celebrate than with jewelry and accessories inspired by the happiest place on earth.
    Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 5 Nov. 2024
  • The New York store will retail across two levels and will feature over 5,000 Princess Polly styles, including apparel, footwear and accessories.
    Mark Faithfull, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • His choice for attorney general will be closely watched.
    Carl Leubsdorf, The Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2024
  • The 6-foot Mejia could be an excellent choice with her passing skills and height.
    Dan Albano, Orange County Register, 7 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Furniture, appliances, and other household items can also be donated to Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore program.
    Whizy Kim, Vox, 19 Nov. 2024
  • Checking out all the low prices on decor is a good place to start, but don’t forget deals on other bigger items like mattresses, appliances, and more.
    Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 18 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Although Keychain is positioned as an alternative to a dedicated password manager, Apple also offers passwordless Passkeys, but not many companies support the technology.
    PCMAG, PCMAG, 7 Nov. 2024
  • As a result, finding an alternative to distract your mind and occupy your hands can be crucial during a digital detox.
    Discover Magazine, Discover Magazine, 7 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • There’s a lot of add-on costs that come with the purchase of an artwork, which are also being more carefully considered with each purchase.
    Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 5 Nov. 2024
  • The video introduction below provides a complete walkthrough of the base trailer and all five stages of add-ons.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 4 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • This preference is more popular amongst Millennials (67%) compared to Boomers (37%).
    Gary Drenik, Forbes, 10 Feb. 2023
  • That preference was on display in August last year, when the KMT’s Hsia visited China amid lingering tensions over Pelosi’s visit.
    Bloomberg.com, Bloomberg.com, 7 Feb. 2023
Noun
  • Grey’s Anatomy Night Moves Season 21 Episode 6 Editor’s Rating 3 stars *** «Previous Next There are two ways a person can leave Grey’s Anatomy.
    Laura Bradley, Vulture, 8 Nov. 2024
  • Trump’s policies, Seif said, could end up adding fuel to the fire — and force the Fed to act in a way Trump would not look favorably upon.
    Rob Wile, NBC News, 7 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near option

Cite this Entry

“Option.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/option. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on option

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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