Inklingo
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opción

ohp-SYOHN/opˈθjon/

option, choice

Also: alternative
NounfA1
A hand reaching out, hovering between a brightly colored red apple and a yellow banana, illustrating the concept of having a choice.

📝 In Action

Solo tenemos una opción: empezar de nuevo.

A1

We only have one option: start over.

La tercera opción es la más barata, pero la más lenta.

A2

The third choice is the cheapest, but the slowest.

Si no funciona, tenemos otras opciones en mente.

B1

If it doesn't work, we have other options in mind.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • obligación (obligation)

Common Collocations

  • tener la opción – to have the option/choice
  • dar una opción – to give an option
  • la mejor opción – the best option

option

Also: call/put option
NounfB2formal
A large, closed wooden treasure chest sits on the ground. A distinct, antique key is floating loosely above the chest, symbolizing the right to access without obligation.

📝 In Action

El acuerdo incluye una opción de compra prioritaria sobre las acciones.

B2

The agreement includes a priority purchase option on the shares.

Debemos ejercer la opción antes de la fecha límite.

C1

We must exercise the option before the deadline.

Word Connections

Common Collocations

  • ejercer una opción – to exercise an option
  • opción de venta – put option (right to sell)

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: opción

Question 1 of 2

Which sentence correctly uses 'opción'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
optar(to choose/to opt for) — Verb
optativo/a(optional) — Adjective
🎵 Rhymes▼
naciónaccióncanción
📚 Etymology▼

Comes directly from the Latin word *optio*, meaning 'choice,' 'selection,' or 'the right to choose.' It has been part of the Spanish language for centuries.

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: optionFrench: option

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'opción' similar to 'elección'?

Yes, they are very similar and often interchangeable. 'Opción' usually refers to one of several available things, while 'elección' focuses more on the act of choosing or the final chosen thing.

How do I say 'optional' in Spanish?

The most common word is 'optativo' or 'opcional.' For example, 'Es una clase opcional' (It is an optional class).