i opt to

USAGE SUMMARY

"I opt to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are deciding between two or more options and choosing one option over the others. For example: "I opt to go to the movies tonight instead of going out for dinner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Sometimes I opt to copy words and paste them into the text of a column — to quote verbatim.

The New York Times - Magazine

So that evening I opt to swing by two of the city's smaller spots, starting with Moog.

The Guardian - Travel

'Does he want money?' 'Blood.' I opt to bide my time while Akiko Kato cuts more rope for her hanging altar.

The Guardian - Books

In desperation, after repeated failed attempts to conjure up the missing selection, I opt to get a standard ride into town in the traditional Friday evening manner: alone.

The Guardian - Tech

The lodge holds two 90-minute group lessons a day and, having never had tuition, I opt to go back to basics with the beginners.

The Guardian - Travel

Most of time I opt to type my password in for them, but there is an easier way: store your Wi-Fi info on an NFC tag.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

I opted to go the hotel route.

The New York Times

I opted to go the baked, not fried, route.

The New Yorker

"Knowing that, I opted to leave my horse out there.

The New York Times - Sports

I opted to stay and see the understudy.

The New York Times

After straining for a sterner response to the works, I opted to relax and like them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I opt to" when clearly choosing one option from a set of alternatives. It adds a touch of formality suitable for both personal and professional writing.

Common error

Avoid using "opt" excessively in close succession. Vary your language by using synonyms like "choose", "select", or "decide" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I opt to" functions as a verb phrase indicating a conscious choice or decision. It's used when expressing a preference or selection among alternatives, as Ludwig illustrates. This construction conveys a sense of agency and deliberate action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I opt to" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase for expressing a deliberate choice, as confirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it carries a neutral tone suitable for various contexts. While effective, it's advisable to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "I choose to" or "I decide to" for variety. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its versatile usage in conveying personal preferences and planned actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i choose to

Emphasizes the act of selecting among alternatives, being a more direct synonym.

i decide to

Focuses on the resolution or determination to do something.

i elect to

Suggests a formal or official selection.

i prefer to

Indicates a liking for one option over another, implying a degree of inclination.

i resolve to

Highlights the firmness of the decision and commitment to follow through.

i determine to

Stresses the process of figuring out which course of action is the best for me.

i have decided to

Puts the emphasis on the point of culmination of figuring out which course of action is the best for me.

my choice is to

Turns the action in a noun so it can work better in certain contexts.

i am inclined to

Suggests a leaning towards a particular decision, often due to a feeling or predisposition.

i see fit to

Highlights that the action is something that I deem appropriate

FAQs

How can I use "I opt to" in a sentence?

Use "I opt to" when expressing a choice or preference between different options. For example, "Given the weather, "I opt to" stay indoors."

What can I say instead of "I opt to"?

You can use alternatives like "I choose to", "I prefer to", or "I decide to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "I opt to" or "I opt for"?

"I opt to" is generally followed by a verb, while "I opt for" is followed by a noun. For example, ""I opt to" travel by train" versus "I opt for the train".

Is "I opt to" formal or informal?

"I opt to" is somewhat formal but appropriate in many writing and speaking situations. Less formal alternatives include "I choose to" or "I decide to".