OPTIONALLY Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

optionally

adverb

as in alternatively

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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

Counsell and Bregman demurred when asked for specifics of who came up with the costumes, instead giving everyone credit for what became a memorable day.

— Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 19 Sep. 2026
He was originally sentenced to two months in prison but ultimately was allowed instead to serve the time in a work-release program, pay the back taxes and a $30,000 fine, and perform 800 hours of community service teaching art in Harlem schools.

— BETH J. HARPAZ THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, Arkansas Online, 18 Sep. 2026

Definition of instead

Adverb

Chicago police have alternately been accused of disregarding federal agents’ 911 calls and aiding immigration enforcement through traffic stops and crowd control.

— Caroline Kubzansky, Chicago Tribune, 11 Sep. 2026
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

Definition of alternately

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optional

optionally

options

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“Optionally.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optionally. Accessed 19 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of optionally

adverb

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