In a pure monopoly, consumer choice is typically:

In a pure monopoly, consumer choice is primarily restricted due to the absence of competition and the presence of only one provider of the good or service. In this market structure, the monopolist is the sole supplier, which means that consumers cannot choose between different producers when making their purchasing decisions. This lack of alternatives leads to limited options for consumers, effectively meaning they must either accept the monopolist's prices and terms or forgo the good or service entirely.

The monopolist also has significant control over the price and quantity of the products sold, which can lead to higher prices and less innovative offerings compared to a competitive market where multiple firms strive to attract customers. This restriction on choice and the ability to set prices above marginal cost contributes to a loss in consumer surplus, emphasizing the consequences of monopolistic behavior on consumer welfare.

Other options refer to different concepts that do not directly relate to the nature of consumer choice in a monopoly. Competition does not enhance choice when there is no competition, government regulation may help to curb monopolistic practices, but it does not increase choices directly, and the notion of inferior goods also does not address the core issue of choice restriction in a monopolistic market.