What does option mean?
An option is a choice that is available to someone, usually one of several possible alternatives. The word can describe an everyday decision, as in having the option of walking instead of taking a bus, or a formal right to choose, such as a contractual option to purchase property. In computing, options are selectable settings or commands presented by a program. Option often implies more deliberateness than simply saying “choice”: it suggests that alternatives are being considered, and perhaps that one may be selected later or declined. The expression “no option but” emphasizes that only one course of action is possible. Although option is frequently used in personal, commercial, and legal contexts, it remains appropriate across registers and carries little inherent emotional connotation.
A choice available to someone, especially among several possible alternatives; a course of action that someone may choose.
"The company has two options: expand the service or limit it to major cities."
In legal and commercial contexts, an option may be a contractual right to choose a specified course of action.
To choose or select something, especially from several alternatives.
"Customers can option the most popular designs before the deadline."
As a verb, option is less common than the noun and is often used in formal or specialized contexts.
The plural is regularly used when referring to several available choices or selectable settings.
"The program offers several options for exporting the document."
An option gives you a choice, but choosing one may mean letting the others go.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does option come from?
Option comes through French from Latin optio, meaning “a choice” or “the act of choosing.” Latin optio was related to optare, “to choose,” which is also the source of English opt. The development of the English word from the Latin noun reflects its long-standing use in discussions of choice and available alternatives. Its connection with selection remains evident in derivatives such as optional and adoption.
Related word forms
How option is actually used
Option is common in formal and informal English. In a business or legal context, it often means a right to choose a particular course of action, sometimes for a limited time.
Easily confused with option
An option is a choice available to someone, whereas adoption is the act of taking on or legally accepting something as one's own.
An option is an available choice, while an exception is a case to which a rule does not apply.