optionally

adverb

as in alternatively

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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 optionally Wavecamper, too, installs two individual rear seats standard but offers fifth and sixth seats optionally, expanding the Flex E-Line's capability to serve as a proper everyday MPV for families, as well as a cozy four-sleeper camper van. — New Atlas, 7 Oct. 2026 This includes cameras, microphones, and optionally radar, which watch the surrounding area in all directions. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026 In an example video, Google demonstrates how the user can speak long, complex instructions, optionally referring to files on the local computer, and have Gemini synthesize a response directly into a document or email. — Paul Monckton, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 Both sizes are optionally available with LTE connectivity in addition to the standard Bluetooth for an extra $50. — Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 22 July 2026 The 16-way adjustable sport seats are standard, while performance seats shelled in carbon fiber—presenting more aggressive thigh and shoulder bolsters—are optionally available. — Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 8 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optionally
  1. alternatively
  2. either
  3. instead
  4. alternately
Adverb
  • The hotel can also arrange transportation by boat, helicopter, or private plane—alternatively, come by yacht and anchor down at the edge of the bay.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Oct. 2026
  • The Ocarina of Time remake, alternatively, maintains the original game's cartoony aesthetic but layers it with intricate detail.
    — James Perkins Mastromarino, NPR, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of alternatively
Adverb
  • If your team can’t reconstruct what the agent saw and did in March, the auditor can’t either.
    — Jacqueline DeStefano-Tangorra, Forbes.com, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Driving isn’t advisable either, nor is one of his other passions, riding a motorcycle, Joel told the Hollywood Reporter in an article that came out Thursday.
    — Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of either
Adverb
  • The coaches, administrators, staff and athletes will have no affiliation with our colleges and universities but instead will be employed by their respective professional leagues.
    — Bruce Svare, Sportico.com, 17 Oct. 2026
  • The Singapore Shipping Association also played down the prospect of a broad withdrawal of commercial shipping from the region, suggesting operators would instead adapt to changing trade conditions.
    — Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of instead
Adverb
  • On the mezzanine, young people alternately browsed and posed for Beatles-style photographs taken from below.
    — Nathan Heller, New Yorker, 19 Oct. 2026
  • In her remarks, the WNBA commissioner sounded alternately satisfied and sensitive, conveying her pride for the undeniable growth of the league over her term while also occasionally striking a defensive tone.
    — Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of alternately

Browse Nearby Words

optional
optionally
options
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Cite this Entry

“Optionally.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optionally. Accessed 23 Oct. 2026.

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