option

noun

ˈäp-shən How to pronounce option (audio)
Definition of optionnext
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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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

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

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 cost of other meat options, including chicken, has been more stable. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 14 July 2025 Wayfair’s selection is packed with options such as this free-standing bathroom cabinet that offers a variety of organization options. —Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 14 July 2025 While opting for the white colorway will offer coastal appeal, like the brand’s Loire headboard, this one has tons of fabric options to personalize its design to match your aesthetic. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 14 July 2025 That might mean building more recovery time into high-pressure roles, offering better internal mobility options, or training managers in better communication techniques. —Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for option
Recent Examples of Synonyms for option
  1. accessory
  2. choice
  3. appliance
  4. alternative
  5. add-on
  6. way
Noun
  • Get it for up to 30 percent off at Amazon, along with more of our favorite waterproof beach accessories from fanny packs to makeup bags, playing cards, and more.
    — Caley Sturgill, People.com, 14 July 2025
  • Rounding off the Relay’s talents is a range of accessories, including a usefully short 6cm USB-C-to-USB-C cable, a microfiber cleaning cloth, plus a black cushioned Ripstop bag.
    — Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Definition of accessory
Noun
  • With more injuries than several teams combined, the Los Angeles Dodgers have no choice but to add to their bullpen at the trade deadline.
    — Drew VonScio, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 July 2025
  • Between the heat and sweltering humidity, long pants aren’t typically our first choice when getting dressed in the summer.
    — Emily Weaver, People.com, 26 July 2025
Definition of choice
Noun
  • If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances.
    — NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2025
  • Home appliance stocks performed strongly, including Midea (+2.57%) and Haier (+3.15%), alongside gains for the insurance and banking sectors.
    — Brendan Ahern, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025
Definition of appliance
Noun
  • Main routes such as Reading Road and Hamilton Avenue are also alternatives to travel north and south through Hamilton County.
    — Jennifer Edwards Baker, Cincinnati Enquirer, 26 July 2025
  • Airbnbs can be a budget-friendly alternative to a hotel, especially for groups or families traveling together.
    — Lane Nieset, Travel + Leisure, 26 July 2025
Definition of alternative
Noun
  • Try add-ons like the usual butter and sour cream or more creative options like chickpeas (another super food), salsa, or chili.
    — Stephanie Ganz, Parents, 15 July 2025
  • The key is to integrate engagement into every step of the customer journey, rather than treating it as an add-on.
    — Manu Mathew, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
Definition of add-on
Noun
  • Or the ways that the Reyes family has lived in fear since Jose and his father were detained in early May.
    — Austin Hornbostel, The Tennessean, 26 July 2025
  • The task force would submit a report with recommendations to the state Legislature after examining the systemic causes of violence against African American women and girls, ways to help victims' families heal, methods to track data to understand the scope of the issue and more.
    — Hope Karnopp, jsonline.com, 26 July 2025
Definition of way

Browse Nearby Words

opting (for)
option
optional
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Option.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/option. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on option

Nglish: Translation of option for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about option

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