optional
Americanadjective
-
left to one's choice; not required or mandatory.
Formal dress is optional.
- Synonyms:
- voluntary, elective, discretional
-
leaving something to choice.
adjective
Other Word Forms
- nonoptional adjective
- nonoptionally adverb
- optionality noun
- optionally adverb
- unoptional adjective
- unoptionally adverb
Etymology
Origin of optional
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
If AI becomes the default study partner, collaboration becomes optional.
AI use is no longer optional if you work in tech.
"I feel responsible. And I know I want children. I can no longer afford to take this kind of optional risk," she said.
From Barron's
In fact, he says they’re the reason Music Mogul AI includes optional consulting — one-on-one strategy sessions designed to complement the software.
From Los Angeles Times
Many apps suggest that users pay optional “tips” after they get their money, which can sometimes be difficult to opt out of.
From MarketWatch
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
