optional

American  

[op-shuh-nl] / ˈɒp ʃə 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 British  

/ ˈɒpʃənəl /

adjective

1. possible but not compulsory; left to personal choice

---

Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of optional

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

Example Sentences

“This makes insuring a mobile home somewhat optional. Other than liability and contents coverage, you might consider just having a reserve fund of what you estimate it would cost to replace.”

From MarketWatch

La Mirada Heights is marketed as an independent senior living community designed for older adults who can live on their own while receiving optional support services, according to the facility’s website.

From Los Angeles Times

The rule is expected to make quarterly reporting optional, not eliminate quarterly reports altogether.

From The Wall Street Journal

It also introduced an optional subscription package called Autonomy+ for driver-assistance features, such as hands-off driving.

From MarketWatch

Under this system, students can attend optional learning modules before the official start of regular classes in the morning, during midday breaks, or later in the afternoon.

From Science Daily