opt

v.

US //ˈɑpt// UK //ˈɒpt// opt

1 to choose (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

to choose one thing instead of another.

to make a choice or selection from among several available alternatives.

Example

After looking at several different cars, they decided to opt for the smaller, electric model.

Example

Faced with a stagnant domestic market, the board of directors decided to opt for a more aggressive international expansion strategy.

Usage

Usually followed by the preposition 'for' when choosing a noun, or 'to' when choosing an action.

Teacher's tip

Learners often confuse this with 'choose'; explain that 'opt' often implies a more formal or deliberate decision between specific alternatives.

Origin

First attested in 1853; borrowed from French opter, from Latin optō (“to choose; to select”). Doublet of optate.

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