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 Buyers can gain even more off-grid capability by optionally upgrading to a 750-Ah battery and 800-watt solar setup and/or adding on options like Starlink satellite internet, a Goodguards water filtration system and a Maxview 4x4 LTE 5G antenna. — New Atlas, 5 Sep. 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 loft is accessed by a staircase and has ample space for a third double bed, or alternatively it could be used for storage or as a general hangout area.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 5 Sep. 2026
  • The United States should not echo its 1970s policies around food power, during which officials boasted of altruism while attempting to exert political strength by alternatively deploying and withholding its grain supply.
    — Anna Nelson, Foreign Affairs, 4 Sep. 2026
Definition of alternatively
Adverb
  • The odds that a rogue AI causes something unfortunate and unexpected to happen in the near future aren’t bad, either.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Ovechkin’s decades-long foil, Sidney Crosby, wasn’t sure if the Capitals star would return, either.
    — Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
Definition of either
Adverb
  • The game featured a fourth-quarter comeback by Mizzou and a Tigers fan passing up a chance to win $25k to troll the Jayhawks instead.
    — Justin Williams, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Vance had planned to be in New York for the anniversary last year but instead flew to Salt Lake City to be with the family of Charlie Kirk after the conservative activist was fatally shot.
    — Collin Binkley, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2026
Definition of instead
Adverb
  • Other men on the street and at work in the surroundings alternately lust after and spy on the sisters.
    — Jessica Kiang, Variety, 3 Sep. 2026
  • With action that’s alternately jaw-dropping and campy, the newest Street Fighter will punch and kick its way into theaters nearly 40 years after the franchise first launched.
    — Jack Smart, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 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 13 Sep. 2026.

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