an option that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an option that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing choices or alternatives in various contexts, such as decision-making or offering suggestions. Example: "We have an option that allows for greater flexibility in scheduling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is an option that bears exploring.

The New York Times

That is an option that makes publishers cringe.

The Washington Post

"It's an option that wasn't available a few years ago".

The New York Times - Tech

She needed an option that would stay put.

The New York Times - Health

"That is an option that is very possible," Boehner said.

The Washington Post

Regeneration is an option that can be simultaneously implemented with water reuse.

Handbook of Water and Energy Management in Food Processing

"That is an option that should remain open," Mr. Giuliani said.

The New York Times

M.L.S. also has an option that can extend the contract through 2008.

The New York Times - Sports

Ibrahim's response is that the prize offers leaders an option that didn't previously exist.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"The N.B.A. was an option that may or may not materialize".

The New York Times

These less invasive techniques constitute an option that is better tolerated in medically compromised patients.

Seminars in Vascular Surgery

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an option that" when you want to introduce a specific possibility or choice within a context. Make sure the "that" clause clearly defines or elaborates on the option.

Common error

Avoid using "an option that" in simple sentences where a more direct noun or adjective would suffice. For instance, instead of "This is an option that is expensive", try "This is an expensive option".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an option that" functions as a relative clause, where "that" introduces a clause that modifies and provides additional information about the noun "option". It serves to specify or elaborate on the characteristics or attributes of the particular option being discussed, as exemplified in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

35%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an option that" serves as a versatile phrase for introducing and elaborating on potential choices or courses of action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Its frequency across diverse sources, particularly in News & Media and Science, underscores its neutrality, as well as its suitability for professional, informative, and even academic contexts. While synonyms exist, "an option that" is particularly effective when a defining or elaborating clause is needed. Overuse in simple sentences, however, should be avoided to maintain clarity and conciseness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a possibility which

Replaces "option" with "possibility" and restructures the sentence slightly, maintaining a high degree of interchangeability.

a choice that

Substitutes "option" with the direct synonym "choice", resulting in minimal semantic difference.

an alternative which

Offers "alternative" in place of "option", with a slightly more formal tone.

a route that

Replaces "option" with "route", implying a course of action or a way to achieve something.

a solution that

Emphasizes the problem-solving aspect of the option, suggesting it can resolve an issue.

a course of action that

Replaces "option" with a more descriptive phrase, highlighting the active nature of the choice.

a possibility that exists

Expands on the concept of an option by explicitly stating its existence.

a feasible alternative

Adds the constraint of feasibility to the alternative, implying practicality.

a potential avenue

Replaces "option" with "avenue", implying a pathway or direction to explore.

a strategy that

Highlights the planned and deliberate nature of the option, suggesting a strategic approach.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "an option that" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "a possibility which", "an alternative which", or "a course of action that". These alternatives add a layer of sophistication to your writing.

Is there a difference between "an option that" and "a choice that"?

While "an option that" and "a choice that" are often interchangeable, "a choice that" might emphasize the act of selecting, whereas "an option that" simply presents a possibility.

When is it best to use "an option that" instead of other alternatives?

Use "an option that" when you want to clearly define or describe the characteristics or limitations of the possibility you're presenting. The "that" clause allows for further specification.

What are some common synonyms for "an option that" in academic writing?

In academic writing, you might consider more precise alternatives like "a potential strategy", "a feasible alternative", or "a viable solution depending on the context".