this is completely voluntary

USAGE SUMMARY

"This is completely voluntary" is a grammatically correct sentence in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that someone's participation in an activity is their choice and not mandatory. For example, "I'd like to invite you to participate in this survey, but it's completely voluntary."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

We encourage all researchers to make a small contribution at http://rfmri.org/HelpUs to help the PRN effort, but this is completely voluntary.

F1000Research

Remember that this is completely voluntary, and your time and answers are much appreciated; however, if you happen to feel uncomfortable with any question you are welcome to skip the question and also to end the interview at any time.

Acta Neurochirurgica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Participation in this study is completely voluntary.

Yale University

But where it's understood by everyone that this arrangement is completely voluntary and that there will be no enforcement mechanism, it will just be naming and shaming.

Columbia University

"This program is completely voluntary.

TechCrunch

Participation in this study is completely voluntary, but we would be happy to receive your personal contribution.

SERIEs

Participation in this questionnaire is completely voluntary and anonymous.

Critical Care

We announced that the modules were available and that completion of these was completely voluntary.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

We announced that the modules were available and that completion of these was completely voluntary at that point.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

This is to help ensure participation is completely voluntary and to prevent biased responding – either exaggerating or minimising problems in the belief that this may help them obtain a permanent visa [ 40].

BMC Psychiatry

Participation is completely voluntary and participants may refuse to complete the study at any time or refuse to answer any of the questions for any reasons.

BMC Psychiatry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the voluntary nature of something, follow up with a brief explanation of what's involved to help people make an informed decision.

Common error

Don't assume people understand what "voluntary" means in a specific context. Clearly state what alternatives are available if they choose not to participate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is completely voluntary" primarily functions as an declarative statement. According to Ludwig AI, it is used to emphasize that someone's participation in an activity is their choice and not mandatory. The function is to inform and reassure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

33%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is completely voluntary" is a grammatically correct phrase that serves to emphasize that participation is optional and not required. Ludwig AI confirms its role in assuring individuals of their freedom of choice. Appearing frequently across Science, News & Media, and Academia sources, the phrase maintains a neutral register, adaptable to both formal and informal settings. Alternatives such as "participation is optional" or "this is not mandatory" offer similar assurances, and it's essential to avoid assumptions about understanding and clearly state the available alternatives. Top sources include The New York Times, The Guardian, and Huffington Post, reflecting its widespread use in authoritative contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

This is entirely optional

Emphasizes that there is absolutely no requirement or obligation to participate; it's purely up to the individual's discretion.

This is not compulsory

States explicitly that there is no obligation or requirement to do something.

This is not mandatory

Directly states that there is no mandatory aspect to it.

Participation is optional

A more concise way of saying that engaging in something is not required.

There is no obligation to participate

Clearly communicates that no one is forced or required to take part.

It's a choice, not an obligation

Clarifies that the activity is something one can choose to do, not something one must do.

This is at your discretion

Indicates that the decision rests solely with the individual, and they can choose based on their own judgment.

It is up to you

A direct and simple way of conveying that the choice is the individual's to make.

You have the option to...

Focuses on availability of choice for the action.

You are free to choose

Highlights the freedom and autonomy of the individual in making the decision.

FAQs

How can I use "this is completely voluntary" in a sentence?

You can use "this is completely voluntary" to emphasize that participation in an activity or program is not required. For instance, "Attending the workshop is optional; "this is completely voluntary"".

What are some alternatives to "this is completely voluntary"?

Alternatives include phrases like "participation is optional", "this is not mandatory", or "it is up to you" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "completely voluntary"? Can something be partially voluntary?

While "voluntary" implies a choice, using "completely voluntary" emphasizes the total absence of coercion. It can be used for clarity, especially when the situation might suggest a subtle pressure to participate.

When is it appropriate to use "this is completely voluntary"?

It's appropriate when introducing an activity, study, or program where individuals might feel obligated to participate, even if it's not explicitly stated. It assures them that they have a genuine choice without negative consequences.