a voluntary scheme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a voluntary scheme" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a program or plan that individuals can choose to participate in without any obligation. Example: "The government has introduced a voluntary scheme to encourage citizens to adopt more sustainable practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A voluntary scheme was all that was agreed.

The Guardian

Britain said it would not participate and some eastern countries have called for a voluntary scheme.

The Guardian

He has asked the Energy Savings Trust to work with retailers and manufacturers on a voluntary scheme.

The Guardian

The responsibility deal is a voluntary scheme that asks companies to sign up to pledges to support healthy choices.

The Guardian

As it is a voluntary scheme, the currency can switch between sterling and Bristol pounds, he said.

The Guardian - Business

Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia are considering the matter, while Washington state this week announced a voluntary scheme.

The Economist

The government is impatient for the banks to come up with a voluntary scheme of their own.

The Economist

But a voluntary scheme is unlikely to work either, says Brian Waterhouse, a bank analyst at HSBC Securities in Tokyo.

The Economist

The figures will be a huge disappointment to the government, which backed a voluntary scheme to cut the use if throwaway bags.

The Guardian

The Home Office has indicated that Britain will not take part in any compulsory EU resettlement scheme or be bound by targets as part of a voluntary scheme.

The Guardian

He said the government was working with farmers on a voluntary scheme to provide information to cattle buyers about the TB history of animals.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "voluntary scheme", clearly state who is eligible to participate and what benefits or outcomes are expected.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "voluntary scheme" is the same as a free or costless one. Participation may be optional, but it can still involve some kind of cost or commitment from the participants.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a voluntary scheme" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a plan, program, or system where participation is not obligatory. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

19%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a voluntary scheme" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a program or plan where participation is optional. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widely accepted across various contexts. The analysis reveals that the phrase is most frequently used in news and media, science, and formal business settings. While it indicates that participation is not mandatory, remember that it doesn't necessarily imply that it is free of cost. Consider alternatives like "optional arrangement" or "elective program" depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

optional arrangement

Replaces 'scheme' with 'arrangement' to denote a less formal plan, also implies choice.

elective program

Substitutes 'voluntary' with 'elective' which indicates a choice to participate.

non-mandatory plan

Emphasizes the lack of obligation with 'non-mandatory' instead of 'voluntary'.

opt-in system

Focuses on the action of choosing to join the scheme.

discretionary initiative

Replaces 'voluntary' with 'discretionary' suggesting it's up to individual's judgement.

unforced mechanism

Highlights the absence of coercion.

self-selected scheme

Indicates that individuals choose to be part of the scheme.

willing participation program

Stresses the willingness of participants as a key element.

voluntary undertaking

Underscores the choice aspect and commitment involved.

non-compulsory measure

Emphasizes the lack of a requirement to participate.

FAQs

How can I use "a voluntary scheme" in a sentence?

You can use "a voluntary scheme" to describe a program or initiative where participation is optional. For example: "The company introduced "a voluntary scheme" for employees to reduce their carbon footprint."

What are some alternatives to saying "a voluntary scheme"?

Alternatives include "optional program", "elective system", or "non-mandatory plan". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "a voluntary scheme" the same as "a compulsory scheme"?

No, "a voluntary scheme" implies that participation is optional, while "a compulsory scheme" means participation is required. They are opposite in meaning.

What's the difference between "a voluntary scheme" and "a pilot program"?

While both can be optional, "a voluntary scheme" emphasizes the choice to participate. A "pilot program" is a test program, and the voluntary nature may be secondary to its experimental purpose.