OPTIONALLY Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

optionally

adverb

as in alternatively

Related Words

Relevance

Dissimilar Words

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

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

Matt Bevin has missed several court dates in the case and did not attend the May 29 hearing in person as required by the judge, appearing via Zoom instead.

— Lucas Aulbach, Louisville Courier Journal, 4 Sep. 2026
Hospitals fought back, and Congress rejected the proposal, instead favoring a voluntary approach desired by the industry.

— Stephanie Armour, Miami Herald, 4 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

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Optionally.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optionally. Accessed 10 Sep. 2026.

Copy Citation

Synonyms of optionally

adverb

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

loath

Popular in Grammar & Usage

Merriam-Webster’s Great Big List of Words You Love to Hate

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

Why do we use apostrophes to show possession?

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

What's the difference between 'fascism' and 'socialism'?

Popular in Wordplay

9 Words That Sound Like Insults But Aren't

Back to School Vocabulary

Words from the 'Odyssey'

Ye Olde Nincompoop: Old-Fashioned Words for 'Stupid'

14 Phobias You Probably Haven't Heard Of

Popular

Merriam-Webster’s Great Big List of Words You Love to Hate

9 Words That Sound Like Insults But Aren't

Back to School Vocabulary

Games & Quizzes