What does opt mean?
“Opt” is a verb meaning to choose or elect a course of action when alternatives are available. It is especially common in the phrase “opt for,” as in choosing one product, plan, or policy over others: “She opted for the cheaper flight.” The related construction “opt to” expresses a decision to do something: “They opted to remain at home.” “Opt in” and “opt out” refer respectively to entering or withdrawing from an arrangement, programme, or group. The word has a neutral, practical tone and is used across formal, professional, and everyday contexts. Its Latin origin, from optare, “to choose,” reflects its central meaning: selecting a course rather than following one automatically. Although it can sometimes suggest a choice made after careful consideration, it does not necessarily imply reluctance or dissatisfaction with the alternatives.
verbTo choose or elect to do something, especially when another course of action is available. It is commonly used in the constructions “opt for” and “opt to,” as well as in “opt in” and “opt out.”
- To choose or elect to do something.
- To choose a particular option or course of action.
- To participate or become involved, as in “opt in.”
- To withdraw from participation, as in “opt out.”
"After weighing the options, she decided to opt for a quieter and more sustainable way of travelling."
"The committee will opt for the proposal that offers the clearest benefits."
"Residents can opt in to receive occasional updates about the redevelopment."
The word “opt” comes from a Latin verb meaning “to choose,” so it still carries the idea of selecting one path from several.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does opt come from?
The English word comes from Latin optare, meaning “to choose” or “to select.” It developed into English through French and was used in the sense of choosing or selecting. The same Latin root is reflected in related forms such as option and optative, while optimate was an earlier English borrowing associated with a person considered especially trusted or excellent.
Related word forms
How opt is actually used
“Opt” is standard in formal and informal English. “Opt for” is used to select one option from several, while “opt to” expresses a decision to perform an action. “Opt in” and “opt out” describe participation in a scheme or arrangement.