as in optional
subject to one's freedom of choice
discretionary spending on luxuries dropped dramatically last year
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Recent Examples of discretionary
Other industry sources characterize consumers as more value and deal-oriented than ever, focused on essentials and experiences, and less on discretionary items, yet resilient in their spending behavior.
—
David Moin, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2025
However, with the exception of the Indian Health Service, most federal tribal programs are considered discretionary and could be affected.
—Arlyssa D. Becenti, AZCentral.com, 2 Oct. 2025
Some discretionary programs, however, like food stamps and benefits for women, infants and children may be impacted by a shutdown.
—Calmatters, Oc Register, 30 Sep. 2025
This year is especially important as chains try to reel in consumers who have been cutting back on discretionary spending.
—Auzinea Bacon, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for discretionary
David Moin, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2025
However, with the exception of the Indian Health Service, most federal tribal programs are considered discretionary and could be affected.
—Arlyssa D. Becenti, AZCentral.com, 2 Oct. 2025
Some discretionary programs, however, like food stamps and benefits for women, infants and children may be impacted by a shutdown.
—Calmatters, Oc Register, 30 Sep. 2025
This year is especially important as chains try to reel in consumers who have been cutting back on discretionary spending.
—Auzinea Bacon, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for discretionary
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discretionary
Adjective
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The cost per night, including taxes and additional fees (cleaning fees are often extra—and not optional), can quickly add up.—
Karla Walsh,
Southern Living,
15 Oct. 2025
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Some of these technologies are essential for ensuring the proper functioning of the service or website and cannot be disabled, while others are optional but serve to enhance the user experience in various ways.—
Jazz Monroe,
Pitchfork,
15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
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Pacific Coast Producers, based in California, issued a voluntary recall for select lots of four fruit products on September 4 due to the potential contamination.—
Matthew Robinson,
MSNBC Newsweek,
13 Oct. 2025
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Admission is free, but voluntary donations are appreciated.—
Molly Guthrey,
Twin Cities,
13 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Discretionary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discretionary. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.
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