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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Recent Examples of optional
If desired, dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone, but this is totally optional.
—
Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2025
Flashlights and sleeping bags are optional.
—Melissa Willets, Parents, 1 Nov. 2025
The optional ambient lighting and an aromatherapy tray features add to the calming vibe for winding down before bed.
—Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025
On Thursday, the Dodgers held an optional team workout at the Rogers Centre, but manager Dave Roberts said every single player was in attendance.
—Noah Camras, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for optional
Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2025
Flashlights and sleeping bags are optional.
—Melissa Willets, Parents, 1 Nov. 2025
The optional ambient lighting and an aromatherapy tray features add to the calming vibe for winding down before bed.
—Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025
On Thursday, the Dodgers held an optional team workout at the Rogers Centre, but manager Dave Roberts said every single player was in attendance.
—Noah Camras, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for optional
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optional
Adjective
-
Although the positions are voluntary, state law does not prohibit board members from setting compensation for themselves once appointed.—
Nick Sullivan,
Charlotte Observer,
11 Nov. 2025
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The market for voluntary carbon offset and removal credits has been struggling for the last several years to repair a reputation sullied by numerous greenwashing scandals.—
Tim McDonnell,
semafor.com,
11 Nov. 2025
Adjective
-
Teachers were made aware of my condition, and the name elective mutism was ultimately changed to selective mutism.—
Erin Silvia,
PEOPLE,
28 Oct. 2025
-
This designation halts outpatient and elective procedures and ensures more beds are open for emergencies.—
Briana Waxman,
CNN Money,
24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
-
The survey also revealed that the biggest cutbacks are in discretionary categories, including apparel, leisure, small appliances, electronics, and dining out.—
Paulina Likos,
CNBC,
10 Nov. 2025
-
Whenever caps on discretionary spending or pay-as-you-go requirements threaten to bite, the label becomes something more.—
Veronique De Rugy,
Oc Register,
7 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Optional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optional. Accessed 29 Nov. 2025.
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