this is strictly optional

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is strictly optional" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is not mandatory and can be chosen at the discretion of the individual. Example: "Participation in the workshop is this is strictly optional, so feel free to join if you're interested."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

At this point, campers may also ask to speak to their fathers, but this is strictly optional.

The New Yorker

Peruvians often drink the leftover marinade, known as tiger's milk, after finishing the dish itself, but this is strictly optional – as a hangover cure, it's in the do or die category.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Note that this is strictly optional.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The good news is that mumbo jumbo is strictly optional.

The New York Times - Travel

The same applies to men, though wearing a frock is strictly optional.

The Guardian

The guitar chords for half the rock songs ever written can be learned within hours, and reading music is strictly optional.

The New York Times - Arts

I also noticed the kids ran the bases in groups, but the teacher explained that was strictly optional (though undoubtedly more fun and team-spirited than waiting your turn at bat).

The New York Times

Belief in God is strictly optional.

BBC

Visit her at www.bookpr.com (connecting with her on Facebook or Twitter is strictly optional).

Huffington Post

All you need is a way to measure, shake and stir, and strain--the rest of it is strictly optional.

Huffington Post

While Jared's plea agreement calls for him to engage in sex offender treatment while in prison, such programming is strictly optional.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is strictly optional" when you want to clearly communicate that something is not mandatory and that individuals have the freedom to choose whether or not to participate or engage in it.

Common error

Avoid using "this is strictly optional" when you actually intend to recommend or encourage a certain action. The phrase clearly indicates a lack of obligation, so ensure it aligns with your intended message. If you want to suggest something without making it mandatory, use softer phrasing like "it is recommended" or "you might consider".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is strictly optional" functions as a declarative statement used to indicate that something is not required or mandatory. According to Ludwig AI, it clearly expresses a choice without any obligation. Its primary role is to inform the recipient of their freedom to choose.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33.3%

Wiki

33.3%

Science

33.3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is strictly optional" is a grammatically correct phrase used to clearly state that something is not mandatory. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness. While generally neutral in tone, it's essential to ensure the phrase aligns with your intended meaning, avoiding its use when a recommendation is desired. Consider alternatives like "participation is voluntary" in more formal settings. The phrase appears across various contexts, including news, wikis, and scientific materials, but maintain consistency in tone and register to effectively communicate the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

This is completely voluntary

Replaces 'optional' with 'voluntary', emphasizing the lack of obligation.

This is not compulsory

Uses 'compulsory' instead of 'optional' to highlight the absence of requirement.

This is purely discretionary

Replaces 'strictly optional' with 'purely discretionary' suggesting personal choice.

Participation is at your discretion

Shifts the focus to the individual's power to choose.

Attendance is not required

Specifically addresses attendance, clarifying it's not mandatory.

This is left to your choice

Emphasizes that the decision rests with the individual.

This is your prerogative

Highlights the individual's right or privilege to choose.

You are free to decline

Directly states the option to refuse or reject.

It's up to you whether or not

A more informal way of saying the decision is entirely the individual's.

It's not a must

A concise way to indicate the action is not obligatory.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "this is strictly optional" to sound more encouraging?

Instead of "this is strictly optional", try phrases like "you're welcome to join", "feel free to participate", or "it's an opportunity to consider". These options are less definitive about the lack of obligation and suggest a potential benefit.

When is it appropriate to use "this is strictly optional"?

Use "this is strictly optional" when you want to emphasize that there is absolutely no requirement or pressure to participate. This is useful in situations where you want to avoid any perception of coercion.

What is the difference between "this is strictly optional" and "this is purely optional"?

"This is strictly optional" and "this is purely optional" are very similar. "Strictly" emphasizes the absence of any obligation, while "purely" suggests that the decision is based entirely on individual preference.

What are some formal alternatives to "this is strictly optional"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "participation is voluntary", "attendance is not mandatory", or "this element is discretionary". These options sound more professional while conveying the same meaning.