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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As part of the festivities in Cooperstown, Ichiro was invited to an optional golf outing.—
Brad Lefton,
New York Times,
1 Oct. 2025
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Partnerships with platforms like Hometainment provide optional private chefs, mixologists, and wellness experts, turning a quiet night in into something memorable.—
Robb Report Studio,
Robb Report,
29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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In late August, a jury found a co-defendant guilty of voluntary manslaughter in both killings as well as two counts each of armed criminal action and stealing a firearm.—
Robert A. Cronkleton,
Kansas City Star,
7 Oct. 2025
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In 1976, a judge ruled that Milwaukee Public Schools were unlawfully segregated, leading to a voluntary integration program allowing students to transfer to suburban schools.—
Everett Eaton,
jsonline.com,
7 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Discretionary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discretionary. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.
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