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 Best Quantum Fiber plans Quantum Fiber offers various plans, with the cheapest option starting at $45 a month. Kara McGinley, USA Today, 21 June 2025 For a budget option, try the Micanopy Inn, or take the 20-minute drive to Gainesville for a variety of hotel options. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 21 June 2025 What are Israel’s options if Trump decides against US involvement? Jennifer Griffin, FOXNews.com, 21 June 2025 So, bringing up the subject to her is not an option. R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for option
Recent Examples of Synonyms for option
Noun
  • Keep accessories simple with some gold hoops and a pair of oblong sunglasses, and throw on a clutch bag with your favorite charm to add a personal touch to the dressy casual look.
    Abby Morgan Lebet, Glamour, 20 June 2025
  • At the end of 2022, the company sold a minority stake to fashion business accelerator Underscore District to support the next stage of its growth and has since opened its online store, revamped the website, focused on accessories and collaborations, and increased its wholesale footprint.
    Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • As the 2025 legislative sessions wrap up, one thing is clear: The once radical idea of giving every family access to educational choice is now mainstream.
    Ed Tarnowski, National Review, 20 June 2025
  • When including undecided voters, the first ranked choice margin goes to 43% for Cuomo and 35% for Mamdani.
    Ross O'Keefe, The Washington Examiner, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 18 June 2025
  • This provision ensures compensation for eligible owners whose appliances fail after the announcement.
    Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 June 2025
Noun
  • It is shielded from the impact of subsidy withdrawal largely due to its customer base, its economics, and a sheer lack of viable alternatives.
    Ganesh Rao, CNBC, 20 June 2025
  • Here are some of the top alternatives: YouTube Shorts: Built into the main YouTube app, Shorts offers a similar vertical video experience with strong monetization tools for creators.
    Kate Nalepinski, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • The Bundesliga side are expected to pay in the region of £30million plus add-ons for the 22-year-old central defender.
    Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 22 June 2025
  • There’s a Chrome extension and an add-on for Firefox.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • Many feel there are better ways to do it, but there has not been much change.
    Savannah Leigh Richardson, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 June 2025
  • The trauma eventually seeped its way into Williamson’s writing.
    JP Mangalindan, Time, 19 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Option.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/option. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on option

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