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

• optionally adverb
• optionality noun
• 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

In general, people should buy the highest “replacement-cost endorsement” — or optional addition to their policy — that they can afford, recommends United Policyholders.

Read more on MarketWatch

“Dancing is optional but very much encouraged,” Swift wrote on social-media posts announcing the movie.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

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.

Read more on BBC