Option Meaning
Option Definition & Usage
A choice or alternative among several possibilities.
Examples
- "The company offers a variety of payment options to suit different needs."
- "There are several options for transportation, including buses, trains, and taxis."
- "He didn’t know which option was best, so he asked for advice."
- "You have the option to either stay home or attend the meeting."
- "We are considering our options before making a final decision."
A financial derivative that gives the holder the right (but not the obligation) to buy or sell an asset at a specified price before a certain date.
Examples
- "She bought a call option on the stock, betting that its price would rise."
- "The company issued stock options to its employees as part of their compensation package."
- "Investors are using options to hedge against market risks."
- "Options trading can be risky, but it offers the potential for high returns."
- "A put option allows the investor to sell the asset at a predetermined price."
To select or choose from a set of alternatives.
Examples
- "You can option for the red dress or the blue one; it’s entirely up to you."
- "I decided to option for the vegetarian dish instead of the steak."
- "The team opted for a more conservative approach in their proposal."
- "She opted not to attend the conference after hearing about the timing issues."
- "They opted for a quiet weekend getaway rather than a loud, busy festival."
Cultural Context
The word 'option' has evolved over time from its Latin origins, where it referred to a choice or selection. In modern usage, it is often associated with decision-making, both in personal and professional contexts. It is frequently used in finance and business, particularly in reference to the ability to buy or sell assets.
The Option Dilemma
Story
The Option Dilemma
Sarah stood at the crossroads of her career, pondering her options. She had just received two job offers — one from a fast-paced tech startup and the other from a well-established financial firm. Both came with their perks, but both also had their own sets of challenges. Her phone buzzed with a message from her mentor, Lucas. ‘Don’t forget, an option is not a decision until you make it,’ it read. She chuckled, recalling the many times Lucas had advised her to take her time before jumping into anything. The tech startup had an exciting, innovative atmosphere, promising rapid growth and learning. But the financial firm offered stability, a generous salary, and a clear path to advancement. Both seemed like excellent options, but Sarah felt paralyzed by the weight of choosing the right one. ‘Maybe I’ll flip a coin,’ she thought. But then she paused. An option wasn’t simply a random choice. It was about how each aligned with her future goals. She needed to opt for something that would not only provide immediate rewards but also lead her toward the life she envisioned. As she sat at her kitchen table, a new message popped up from Lucas: ‘Remember, Sarah, options are only powerful if you understand what you’re choosing from. Do your homework and trust your instincts.’ With renewed clarity, Sarah felt ready to make her decision. The next morning, she opted for the tech startup. The fast-paced environment would challenge her in ways she hadn’t anticipated, but it was the right option for her. Her heart raced with excitement as she clicked ‘Accept.’ A new chapter had begun, and her options were no longer just hypothetical choices but real steps toward her future.
Related Words
