this is entirely optional

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'This is entirely optional' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is not necessary or required. For example: "You can choose to include a cover letter with your application, but this is entirely optional."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

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

A follow-up telephone interview (of about 15 minutes) may also take place, although this is entirely optional, and only if participants write in the questionnaire they agree and provide their contact details.

BMC Cancer

This is entirely optional.

WikiHow

This is entirely optional though.

WikiHow

This is entirely optional, but it is on most messenger bags and stops all your things from falling out, so its pretty important.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

This step is entirely optional.

WikiHow

This part is entirely optional.

WikiHow

However, this step is entirely optional.

WikiHow

This step is entirely optional, and depends on the size of the pancakes to begin with, and whether or not you would rather eat them with a knife and fork.

WikiHow

This, of course, is entirely optional.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is entirely optional" to clearly communicate that an action or choice is not required, giving the recipient agency and control. Be sure the context supports this message of non-obligation.

Common error

Avoid using "this is entirely optional" when there are underlying expectations or unspoken pressures. If failing to take the 'optional' action will have negative consequences, it is misleading to present it as truly optional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is entirely optional" functions as a declarative statement to communicate that a particular action, choice, or element is not obligatory. It serves to inform and reassure the recipient that they have the freedom to choose whether or not to proceed.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

43%

News & Media

36%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "this is entirely optional" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to indicate that something is not mandatory. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts, particularly in Wiki, News & Media, and Academic settings. While similar phrases like ""this is completely voluntary"" and ""this is purely discretionary"" offer alternatives, it's important to avoid implying obligation when presenting something as optional. Use this phrase to empower recipients by giving them agency over their choices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is completely voluntary

Emphasizes the voluntary nature of the action more strongly.

this is purely discretionary

Highlights that the decision is based on one's own judgment.

this is at your discretion

Indicates that the choice is up to the individual.

this is not obligatory

Directly states that there is no requirement to do something.

this is a matter of choice

Focuses on the element of choice involved.

this is not compulsory

States that something is not required by law or rule.

this is just a suggestion

Downplays the importance and implies flexibility.

participation is not required

Focuses on the act of participating and its non-mandatory nature.

it is your call

Emphasizes that the final decision rests with the person.

it's up to you

Informal way of saying the decision is yours.

FAQs

What does "this is entirely optional" mean?

The phrase "this is entirely optional" indicates that something is not required and is completely up to the individual's discretion. It means there will be no penalty or negative consequence for choosing not to do it.

How can I use "this is entirely optional" in a sentence?

You can use "this is entirely optional" to clarify that a step, feature, or action is not mandatory. For example, "Adding a cover letter to your application "this is entirely optional"."

What's a more formal way to say "this is entirely optional"?

More formal alternatives include "this is completely voluntary", "this is purely discretionary", or "this is at your discretion". These options are suitable for professional or academic settings.

Is there a difference between "this is entirely optional" and "this is mandatory"?

Yes, "this is entirely optional" means that something is not required and you have a choice, whereas "this is mandatory" means that something is required and you must do it.