totally voluntary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "totally voluntary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or decision that is completely optional and not required. Example: "Participation in the survey is totally voluntary, and you can choose to opt out at any time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"Totally voluntary".

The New York Times

"It's totally voluntary".

The New York Times

Membership commitment is highly encouraged, while totally voluntary.

Columbia University

Parish membership is totally voluntary, bound in no way by kinship.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So it plans to ask Mr. Fossett's widow for a "totally voluntary" contribution of $487,000.

The New York Times

However, it told the Guardian it was under the impression that work experience placements were totally voluntary.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

"All voluntary".

The New York Times

This is all voluntary".

The New York Times

Some are wholly voluntary.

The Economist

It's completely voluntary.

The New York Times

"It's entirely voluntary".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "totally voluntary", ensure the context clearly indicates that there are no hidden requirements or subtle pressures influencing the decision. State explicitly that participation is optional and without consequences for non-participation.

Common error

Avoid using "totally voluntary" when there's an expectation or pressure to participate. If there are benefits associated with participation or disadvantages to opting out, the action isn't genuinely "totally voluntary". Use language that accurately reflects the level of choice involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "totally voluntary" functions as an adverb-adjective combination, modifying a noun or action to emphasize the complete lack of compulsion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically correct. The numerous examples show consistent adjectival usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Academia

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "totally voluntary" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase indicating the complete absence of obligation or pressure in a decision or action. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's best practice to ensure the context reinforces this lack of coercion, accurately reflecting the level of choice offered. While neutral in register, it finds frequent application across news, scientific research, and academia. Consider alternatives such as "completely optional" or "entirely unforced" for nuanced expression. Remember that if an activity is presented as "totally voluntary" when there are hidden expectations, the message is misleading.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely optional

Emphasizes the absence of any requirement or obligation.

entirely unforced

Highlights the lack of external pressure or coercion.

fully discretionary

Focuses on the freedom to decide or choose.

absolutely elective

Stresses the choosable nature of the action or decision.

unconditionally volitional

Emphasizes the role of one's own will in making the choice.

purely willing

Highlights the readiness and enthusiasm of the individual.

genuinely autonomous

Focuses on self-governance and independence in decision-making.

freely chosen

Underlines the absence of constraints in the selection process.

of one's own accord

Indicates an action initiated without external prompting.

at one's discretion

Highlights the power to make decisions according to one's judgment.

FAQs

What does "totally voluntary" mean?

The phrase "totally voluntary" means that something is completely optional and not required. There is no obligation or pressure to participate, and individuals are free to choose whether or not to be involved.

What can I say instead of "totally voluntary"?

You can use alternatives like "completely optional", "entirely unforced", or "fully discretionary" depending on the context.

How do you use "totally voluntary" in a sentence?

You can use "totally voluntary" to describe activities, programs, or contributions. For example: "Participation in the survey is "totally voluntary", and your responses will be kept confidential."

Is it redundant to say "totally voluntary"?

While "voluntary" itself implies a lack of compulsion, adding "totally" emphasizes the complete absence of any requirement or pressure. It can be used for clarity when the freedom of choice needs to be stressed.