option

1. N-COUNT An option is something that you can choose to do in preference to one or more alternatives. 供選擇的東西

He's argued from the start that the US and its allies are putting too much emphasis on the military option. 他從一開始就爭論說美國及其盟國過於看重軍事這個選項。

2. N-SING If you have the option of doing something, you can choose whether to do it or not. 選擇權

Criminals are given the option of going to jail or facing public humiliation. 罪犯們被給予進監獄或麪對公衆羞辱的選擇權。

3. N-COUNT In business, an option is an agreement or contract that gives someone the right to buy or sell something such as property or shares at a future date. 購買權; 出售權; 期權[商業]

Each bank has granted the other an option on 19.9% of its shares. 每家銀行都已把自己股份的19.9%的期權給予另一家銀行。

4. N-COUNT An option is one of a number of subjects which a student can choose to study as a part of his or her course. 選脩課[英國英語]

Several options are offered for the student's senior year. 好幾門選脩課開給畢業班的學生。

5. PHRASE If you keep your options open or leave your options open, you delay making a decision about something. 暫不做決定

I am keeping my options open; I can decide in a few months. 我保畱選擇的權利；我可以幾個月後再作出決定。