election

choice, option, alternative, preference, selection, election mean the act or opportunity of choosing or the thing chosen.

choice suggests the opportunity or privilege of choosing freely.

option implies a power to choose that is specifically granted or guaranteed.

alternative implies a need to choose one and reject another possibility.

preference suggests a choice guided by one's judgment or predilections.

selection implies a range of choice.

election implies an end or purpose which requires exercise of judgment.