not an option

USAGE SUMMARY

"not an option" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is not a viable or available choice and is typically used in a negative context. For example: "Trying to ignore the problem is not an option."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They're not an option.

The New Yorker

"That's not an option".

The New York Times

It's not an option".

The New York Times

Inaction is not an option.

The New York Times

Ghettoization is not an option.

Independent

Waiting is not an option.

The New York Times

Losing is not an option.

Independent

Slumming was not an option.

The New Yorker

(Whist was not an option).

The New York Times - Books

Surgery was not an option.

The New Yorker

Audio is not an option.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not an option" to clearly and directly state that a particular course of action or choice is unacceptable or impossible in a given situation.

Common error

Avoid using "not an option" when suggesting a preference rather than an absolute impossibility. This phrase conveys a firm, non-negotiable stance, which might be too strong for simple preferences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not an option" functions as a declarative statement expressing that a particular course of action, choice, or possibility is unavailable, unacceptable, or impossible. It's used to firmly reject an idea or suggestion. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase follows standard grammar rules and is widely employed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

6%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not an option" is a common phrase used to express that something is impossible, unacceptable, or unavailable as a choice. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various reputable sources. It is found most frequently in news and media, but can also appear in more formal business and informal contexts. While versatile, it's important to recognize the strength of the phrase to ensure it matches the intended level of refusal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

out of the question

Emphasizes impossibility or unacceptability, often implying a firm refusal.

unacceptable alternative

Focuses on the unsuitability of a choice due to its negative consequences.

not a possibility

Highlights the lack of feasibility or likelihood of something occurring.

simply not doable

Implies a practical impossibility, often due to resource constraints or logistical issues.

off the table

Indicates that a suggestion or proposal is no longer being considered.

beyond consideration

Suggests that something is so unacceptable that it does not warrant any further thought.

ruled out

Formally excludes something from a set of potential options or solutions.

unthinkable

Highlights the extreme undesirability or impossibility of a scenario.

inadmissible

Suggests that something is unacceptable or not allowed, especially in a formal context.

non-starter

Indicates that something is doomed to fail from the beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "not an option" in a sentence?

You can use "not an option" to express that a particular choice or action is impossible or unacceptable. For example, "Giving up now is "not an option"".

What can I say instead of "not an option"?

You can use alternatives like "out of the question", "not a possibility", or "off the table", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "not an option"?

The phrase "not an option" is best used when there is a firm, non-negotiable reason why something cannot be considered. It indicates a definite rejection of a particular course of action.

Is "not an option" formal or informal?

The phrase "not an option" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although its impact is quite strong.