What does it mean when someone says an option is a NON-OPTION?

Question

as above

Answer 1

an option that is a non-option isn't really an option.

In other words...

Though technically it is an option - they're not even going to consider it. Another person mentioned that something becomes a "non-option" because the outcome of persuing it would be really really bad.

That's not neccessarily the case (though many times it is). It could just be that the option is unrealistic, or impractical, or there are reasons why it won't work - therefore it becomes a non-option.

For example, my family could stand to cut down on some of our expenses, and spending less money each month. For us, disconecting our cable and/or internet would be one way to do that. However, for our family, that would be a non-option. My oldest son and I are bigtime internet users, and my wife, and other kids like to watch t.v. to relax (especially sporting events). Could we do it? Sure, it wouldn't be horrible or bad - but it would be very uncomfortable, even difficult for our family - even though it would have the benefit of saving us money, and spending less time on the internet or in front of the t.v. Thus, it becomes a non-option when we're looking for ways to save money.

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

It means that while "the option" may be an alternative action you can take in a situation...... by taking it, matters will only get worse.

Answer 3

It means that something that could be an option is NOT. For example, I might say to my kids that either they clean their rooms or they owe me $50 for doing it for them. Basically, they have to clean their rooms, since they don't have $50.

Answer 4

it means that the consequences/results of taking this course of action will be so negative that it is not even worth considering doing

Answer 5

that they will bust your head open if you tried using that particular one