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 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 second awning is available optionally across the three-model lineup, and Stockman offers additional options such as a 24-in smart TV, dual-bike rack and front firewood box. — New Atlas, 17 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 Built for autonomous and networked warfare One of the XM30’s defining features is its optionally manned capability. — Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 9 Apr. 2026 Many Americans falsely conflate Sikh turbans, which are religious garments worn by men to protect their uncut hair and considered mandatory for everyday wear, with turbans worn by Muslims optionally and largely for cultural reasons. — Susie Neilson, San Francisco Chronicle, 5 Mar. 2026 Holes can be cut in the fabric to insert garden plants, and optionally the fabric can be covered with mulch to hide it. — David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 15 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optionally
  1. alternatively
  2. either
  3. instead
  4. alternately
Adverb
  • Cecchi recommends visiting from April to June or alternatively in September or October, when the weather is pleasant and the city feels slightly less crowded.
    — Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026
  • For individuals whose symptoms persist despite medication, surgery may alternatively offer significant relief.
    — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 7 July 2026
Definition of alternatively
Adverb
  • Curtis hasn’t really come close to reaching his potential as a character either.
    — Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 24 July 2026
  • Chris Wood and Tyler Bindon only collected a single point with New Zealand, while Angus Gunn could not help Scotland get beyond the group stage either.
    — Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 24 July 2026
Definition of either
Adverb
  • But, instead, the agency is going after people exercising their constitutional rights to criticize a public agency, according to Shadix.
    — David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 25 July 2026
  • The thick mats cover up the rocky streambed where invertebrates like mayfly nymphs like to live, and instead creates habitats for smaller insects, chironomids and worms.
    — Hannah Smith July 25, Idaho Statesman, 25 July 2026
Definition of instead
Adverb
  • Carol is alternately enchanted and frustrated by her husband’s innocence and altruism, which led him to his not particularly remunerative career as an interpreter.
    — Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 22 July 2026
  • Throughout the film, Elle and Tao alternately bicker and give each other the silent treatment over Elle’s plans to go to Berlin after graduation to pursue a career as an artist.
    — Jessica Sager, PEOPLE, 17 July 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 27 Jul. 2026.

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