Definition of optionalnext
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 The 2026 Studio Display XDR thus sells for barely half the price of its Pro predecessor when it was equipped with its optional stand. Tony Hoffman, PC Magazine, 11 Apr. 2026 This new era of landscape design prioritizes biodiversity and sustainability as foundational elements rather than optional extras. Kansas City Star, 10 Apr. 2026 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, 9 Apr. 2026 While Capy Cafe has not released its final menu, Nguyen said his favorite item is the matcha latte, which consists of matcha, milk, foam and an optional sweetener. Corey Schmidt, Sacbee.com, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for optional
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optional
Adjective
  • Both Vantor and Planet say that the decision to begin limiting imagery has been voluntary.
    Geoff Brumfiel, NPR, 10 Apr. 2026
  • The honest answer may be that the Keynesian 15-hour workweek is coming—just not through voluntary corporate generosity.
    Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • According to the hospital, some planned elective procedures and outpatient appointments will need to be rescheduled.
    Matt Schooley, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Those staff members include critical need teachers, core teachers and elective teachers.
    Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Non-defense discretionary programs include support for education and training, public health and medical research, food and nutrition programs, federal law enforcement, and so on.
    Bloomberg Opinion, Twin Cities, 14 Apr. 2026
  • But by then, the money had already been spent on discretionary staffing at the expense of basic services.
    Mark Powell, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Optional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optional. Accessed 20 Apr. 2026.

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