Voluntary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
voluntary
[หvษlษntษri ]
Definitions
work
done, made, brought, etc., by choice rather than by force or because you are paid to do it
Synonyms
charitable, uncompensated, unpaid.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| voluntary |
When someone freely chooses to do something without being forced or paid for it.
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| unpaid |
Utilized when something is done without receiving financial compensation, commonly used in everyday language and sometimes has a slightly negative connotation.
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| uncompensated |
Employed when referring to work or services that are provided without any payment, often used in formal or professional contexts.
|
| charitable |
Used when actions are done with the intention of helping those in need, often associated with kindness or benevolence.
|
Examples of usage
- He does some voluntary work for a local charity.
- Voluntary contributions are welcome.
- She is a voluntary worker at the hospital.
military
a person who joins the military, a sports organization, etc., because they want to, not because they are forced to
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| voluntary |
Used when participating is a choice and not required by law or force.
|
| recruit |
Often used when someone is newly joined to an organization, particularly one requiring specialized training. Can also imply that they were actively sought out or persuaded.
|
| enlistee |
Often used to describe someone who has signed up to join the armed forces or another formal organization.
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| member |
Used to describe a person who belongs to a group, organization, or community.
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Examples of usage
- He joined the army as a voluntary.
- The team is looking for new voluntaries to join.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Voluntary actions are essential for personal agency, allowing individuals to make choices based on their values.
- Studies show that when people feel they have free choice in their actions, they tend to be more motivated and satisfied.
Legal Context
- In legal terms, voluntary actions can imply consent, indicating that someone agreed to an action or decision without coercion.
- Voluntary agreements are often enforceable in court, provided all parties understand and consent to the terms.
Social Engagement
- Volunteering in community service is a common example of voluntary action, as it reflects a person's choice to help others.
- Many non-profit organizations rely on voluntary help to operate, highlighting the impact of community involvement.
Education
- In educational settings, students often participate in voluntary activities such as clubs or sports, choosing to engage based on interest.
- Voluntary learning can enhance skills and knowledge beyond formal education, showing initiative and independence.
Origin of 'voluntary'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'voluntarius', meaning 'of one's own free will'.
- It shares roots with the word 'volition', which means the power of using one's will.
The word 'voluntary' originated in the late 14th century from the Latin word 'voluntarius', meaning 'of one's free will'. It has been used over the centuries to describe actions or choices made willingly, without compulsion. The concept of voluntary work became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries as a way for individuals to contribute to their communities without financial gain. Today, the term 'voluntary' is widely used in various contexts to emphasize the voluntary nature of an action or decision.
See also: involuntarily, volunteers.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #2,951, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.
- ...
- 2948 engage
- 2949 picked
- 2950 overcome
- 2951 voluntary
- 2952 responsibilities
- 2953 democracy
- 2954 integrated
- ...