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Optionally: meaning, definitions and examples

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optionally

 

[ ˌɒpʃənəli ]

Adverb
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

Translations of the word "optionally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 opcionalmente

🇮🇳 वैकल्पिक रूप से

🇩🇪 optional

🇮🇩 secara opsional

🇺🇦 додатково

🇵🇱 opcjonalnie

🇯🇵 オプションで

🇫🇷 optionnellement

🇪🇸 opcionalmente

🇹🇷 isteğe bağlı olarak

🇰🇷 선택적으로

🇸🇦 اختياريًا

🇨🇿 volitelně

🇸🇰 voliteľne

🇨🇳 可选择地

🇸🇮 neobvezno

🇮🇸 valkvís

🇰🇿 қосымша

🇬🇪 ოპციონალურად

🇦🇿 isteğe bağlı olaraq

🇲🇽 opcionalmente

Etymology

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.