OPTION Synonyms: 81 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

option

noun

ˈäp-shən

Definition of option next

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

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 One of those options is simply staying in China, where universities are growing in prestige, said Prytherch. —

Jessie Yeung, CNN, 21 Nov. 2024 The most effective blackhead removers are a combination of active ingredients and skin-care techniques, with salicylic acid being one of most popular and powerful options for combating clogged pores. —

Emily Orofino, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2024 The best option would be to reach out, with or without permission, to touch the picture’s surface, tracing the whorls and the smeared grooves. —

Anthony Lane, The New Yorker, 21 Nov. 2024 Check out the Amazon fashion section yourself for many more options. —

Clint Davis, People.com, 20 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for option

Recent Examples of Synonyms for option

Noun

Early 2024 Cyber Monday fashion, beauty deals Clothing, accessories, beauty products and swanky luggage to carry it all in, these major retailers have the following Cyber Monday deals: Béis Travel, save money with this coupon code Flying anywhere soon?

John Tufts, The Indianapolis Star, 21 Nov. 2024
Her accessories, the room’s soothing décor, and even her soft clothes and fuzzy blankets complement and extend the world of her games.

Kyle Chayka, The New Yorker, 20 Nov. 2024