this is voluntary

USAGE SUMMARY

'this is voluntary' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe an action or situation that is not required, but is done or undertaken out of choice. For example, "This is a voluntary initiative, and anyone who wants to participate is welcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

This is voluntary, and its existing provisions are widely ignored.

The Guardian - Opinion

"In terms of the later generations, I would suggest that this is voluntary," says Panayi.

The Guardian

"How much of this is voluntary and how much is involuntary?

The New York Times - Health

"This is voluntary," Valentine said, gesturing to a group of about 30 players stretching in T-shirts and shorts.

The New York Times - Sports

"We're saying that we'd give resettlement grants... this is voluntary... we're looking probably at £50,000 per person," he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

The Guardian

Almost a third of adults have not bothered to register to vote (this is voluntary in Chile).Nearly all political commentators in Chile reckon that Mr Enríquez-Ominami cannot win.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

"We attached a great deal of significance to this being voluntary," Mr. Dallara said.

The New York Times

In addition, 37% of participants did not attend the concluding OSCE, as this was voluntary.

BMC Medical Education

Consequently, some centres, not notified when this was voluntary, began to do so at the beginning of 2010.

BMC Public Health

They were also asked personally if they would like to participate, while again stressing that this was voluntary.

BMC Geriatrics

I keep hearing claims that this scheme is voluntary.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is voluntary" to emphasize the freedom of choice and lack of obligation, particularly in contexts where coercion might be perceived.

Common error

Avoid implying that a 'voluntary' action is strongly encouraged or expected. Clearly distinguish between 'voluntary' and 'recommended' to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is voluntary" functions as a declarative statement indicating that a particular action, process, or participation is not obligatory. It serves to inform individuals that they have a choice. Ludwig AI confirms its validity as a standard English phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

68%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is voluntary" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression indicating that an action or participation is not mandatory. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and the examples show its prevalence in both news and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about what is voluntary, and avoid creating the impression of implied obligation. Alternatives such as "this is optional" or "participation is unforced" can be used to convey similar meanings. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for various settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is optional

Replaces 'voluntary' with 'optional', indicating a choice but retaining a similar level of formality.

this is not compulsory

Similar to 'not mandatory', but may carry a slightly less formal tone.

this is not mandatory

Emphasizes the lack of requirement rather than the presence of choice, adding a stronger negative connotation.

participation is unforced

Highlights the absence of coercion, focusing on the individual's agency.

this is discretionary

Implies that the decision is based on individual judgment and preference, adding a layer of personal assessment.

this is at your discretion

Indicates that the decision is left to someone's judgment; quite formal.

it's a matter of choice

Shifts the focus to the act of choosing, making the decision the central point.

this is of your own accord

Emphasizes the self-initiated nature of the action, highlighting intrinsic motivation.

you're free to choose

Directly addresses the individual's freedom to decide, empowering the recipient.

this is down to you

An informal alternative indicating that the decision rests with the individual.

FAQs

What does "this is voluntary" mean?

The phrase "this is voluntary" means that participation or involvement in a particular activity is optional and not required. Individuals are free to choose whether or not to take part.

What can I say instead of "this is voluntary"?

You can use alternatives like "this is optional", "this is not mandatory", or "participation is unforced" to convey a similar meaning.

How to use "this is voluntary" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "Completing the questionnaire is voluntary; your responses will help us improve our services."

Is "this is voluntary" formal or informal?

The phrase "this is voluntary" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its formality can be adjusted depending on the overall tone of the writing or speech.