as in voluntary
subject to one's freedom of choice at the resort all recreational activities are optional, and you may choose to participate in none of them

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of optional Guests can choose between four pastas, seven sauces and three optional toppings for $5 extra. Staff Author, People.com, 20 Aug. 2025 The exterior features plenty of Shelby badging and optional racing stripes. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 20 Aug. 2025 The rider can use a companion mobile app for control and data over Bluetooth, or plump for the optional wireless display. New Atlas, 20 Aug. 2025 That includes deep dives into all of Tom Cruise's airplane and ocean stunts, as well as optional commentary by Director Christopher McQuarrie. Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 18 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for optional
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optional
Adjective
  • County executives who leave office voluntary, choose their immediate successors, according to the charter.
    Ilana Arougheti Updated August 20, Kansas City Star, 20 Aug. 2025
  • As of July 2025, that number surged to 451 voluntary participants — a staggering increase of over 3,500% that underscores the growing need for safeguards in the digital gambling era.
    Ethan Hylton, IndyStar, 20 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The elective residence visa is the option for anyone coming to live in Italy but not planning to work (those with self-sustaining income and assets, including retirees).
    Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
  • What kept her going was a strong team —the elective team at MLK.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 12 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Cosmetics industry sales data can be a proxy for discretionary spending and consumer sentiment.
    Brandon Kochkodin, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2025
  • As such, the community plan laid the regulatory foundation for Irvine Company to move forward with its project at The Plaza site by right, meaning the project does not require discretionary approvals.
    Jennifer Van Grove, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Optional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optional. Accessed 27 Aug. 2025.

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