optional

[op-shuh-nl]

adjective

1. left to one's choice; not required or mandatory.

   Formal dress is optional.

   Synonyms: voluntary, elective, discretional

2. leaving something to choice.

optional

/ ˈɒpʃənəl /

adjective

1. possible but not compulsory; left to personal choice

Other Word Forms

• optionality noun
• optionally adverb
• nonoptional adjective
• nonoptionally adverb
• unoptional adjective
• unoptionally adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of optional¹

First recorded in 1755–65; option + -al ¹

Example Sentences

USC is “test optional” in its application process and students can decide whether or not to submit scores.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“Transparency isn’t optional in a democracy,” she continued.

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Data will be stored only on the smartphones of individual users, and digital IDs will be optional.

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Under the revised proposal, the new system would remain entirely in public hands, the data on the electronic IDs would be stored on users' smartphones rather than centrally, and it would be optional.

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However, for students, pensioners or others not seeking work, having a digital ID will be optional.

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