entirely optional

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'entirely optional' is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means that something is not required or necessary and can be chosen or omitted without consequence. Example: "Attendance at the meeting is entirely optional, but it would be beneficial for you to attend." In this sentence, the speaker is informing the audience that attending the meeting is not mandatory, but it would be helpful for them if they choose to attend.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Entirely optional, you understand.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is OK though, as, legally, lanes are entirely optional.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And, of course, the addition of photos is entirely optional.

The New York Times

First, the truffle oil Byrne calls for is entirely optional.

The New York Times - Magazine

A melodramatic collapse to the ground is entirely optional.

The New York Times - Travel

This is entirely optional, but most take part.

The Guardian

Candidates are permitted to submit statements if they wish, but this is entirely optional".

The Guardian - Books

Still, now I know it's there I try to obey it, even though compliance is entirely optional and I sometimes wonder whether I'm the only one doing it.

Independent

The legislature has no preference for manual recounts as the most accurate way of determining votes, which is why they make it entirely optional.

The New York Times

Sounds of Praise at the Brooklyn Academy of Music offers that experience in a new setting, with the worship part, if not entirely optional, defined openly.

The New York Times

In the end I decide on a compromise: fine bulgar, as they'd use in Lebanon, but with an entirely optional topping of medium grains for heretics like me.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "entirely optional", ensure the context clearly communicates that there are no negative consequences for choosing not to participate. This avoids ambiguity and empowers the audience.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because something is "entirely optional", it is unimportant. Clearly state the benefits of participating, even if it is not required, to encourage engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "entirely optional" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, indicating that participation or inclusion is not mandatory. Ludwig shows examples in various contexts, confirming its flexible usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "entirely optional" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies a lack of obligation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this adjective phrase is commonly employed across various contexts, including news, science, and wiki sources, to convey that something is not required and participation is voluntary. When using "entirely optional", clarity is essential to prevent misinterpretations. Remember to emphasize the freedom of choice while also highlighting any potential benefits, which can effectively encourage participation without creating any sense of pressure or duty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

optional and not obligatory

Explicitly states both "optionality" and lack of obligation.

completely voluntary

Replaces "optional" with "voluntary", emphasizing the element of choice.

up to you entirely

Puts the complete decision-making power on the individual.

fully at your discretion

Shifts the focus to the individual's freedom to decide.

strictly non-compulsory

Uses more formal language to highlight the lack of obligation.

purely elective

Indicates that the action is a matter of personal selection.

not required in any way

Emphasizes the absence of any necessity or obligation.

at your own choosing

Highlights the personal agency in making the decision.

non-essential

Focuses on the aspect that is not a requirement.

contingent on your preference

Highlights that the action depends on the person's choice.

FAQs

How to use "entirely optional" in a sentence?

You can use "entirely optional" to indicate that something is not required. For example, "The side dish is "completely voluntary", so feel free to choose if you want it or not."

What can I say instead of "entirely optional"?

You can use alternatives like "purely elective", ""completely voluntary"", or "not required in any way" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "completely and entirely optional"?

Yes, saying "completely and entirely optional" can be redundant. "Entirely optional" already implies a complete lack of obligation, so adding "completely" doesn't significantly change the meaning.

What's the difference between "entirely optional" and "highly recommended"?

"Entirely optional" means there is no obligation to participate, while "highly recommended" suggests that participation is encouraged but not mandatory. The key difference lies in the strength of the suggestion.