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Optionally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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optionally

[ˌɒpʃənəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

conditional use

The term 'optionally' refers to something that is not mandatory but can be chosen if desired. It is often used in contexts where a choice is provided, allowing for flexibility in decision-making.

Synonyms

discretionarily, electively, voluntarily.

Examples of usage

  • You can optionally submit your resume.
  • The software can optionally run in the background.
  • Participants can optionally choose to receive notifications.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Usage in Language

  • In grammar, 'optionally' indicates that a component of a sentence can be included or left out without changing core meaning.
  • 'Optional' is often used in instructions to guide what is necessary versus what can be chosen, enhancing clarity.
  • It's commonly used in programming languages to denote parameters that aren’t required for execution.

Decision Making

  • Psychologists study 'optional' choices to understand how people make decisions, often connecting it to freedom and autonomy.
  • Having more options doesn't always lead to better choices; this is known as 'choice overload' in behavioral economics.
  • Research shows that when people know they can choose, they often feel more satisfied with their decisions.

Pop Culture

  • 'Optional' is often used in the context of lifestyle choices in media, portraying characters who opt for personalized paths.
  • In various shows and films, characters emphasize optional paths to highlight individual agency and unique story arcs.
  • The use of 'optionally' in dating apps signifies user preferences, showing how choice impacts modern romance.

Education

  • In academics, courses labeled as optional allow students to tailor their learning experiences to their interests.
  • The idea of optional assignments can encourage creativity but might also lead to procrastination among students.
  • Optional readings in curricula help foster a love of learning by allowing students to explore subjects they enjoy.

Origin of 'optionally'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'optional' comes from the Latin word 'optio', meaning choice or selection.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, evolving from the concept of having choices.
  • The suffix '-ally' implies something is related to the choice aspect, forming an adverb.

The word 'optionally' is derived from the noun 'option', which itself comes from the Latin word 'optio', meaning 'choice, opportunity'. This Latin root reflects the idea of selection or preference. The adverb 'optionally' was formed by adding the suffix '-ally' to the adjective 'optional', which describes something that is not required. The development of 'option' and its related forms highlights the importance of choice in both social and personal contexts, especially in legal and formal documents. Over time, the use of 'optionally' has broadened to include casual contexts, allowing speakers and writers to express the idea of non-mandatory selection in everyday language.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,497, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.