voluntarily speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "voluntarily speaking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions or statements made by someone of their own free will or choice. Example: "Voluntarily speaking, I believe that everyone should have the right to choose their own path in life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Why do you think I'm here voluntarily?" Speaking to Sky News on the plane earlier, he expanded on his protestations of innocence.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"I haven't heard him individually, voluntarily speak up on it," Mr. Espaillat added.

The New York Times

no If God won't voluntarily speak to Heti, she will fashion a higher power for herself.

The New Yorker

They added that "far from concealing his trading, Mr. Cuban voluntarily spoke to the S.E.C. without an attorney when they called him about an unrelated" investigation into Mamma.com.

The New York Times

Now a solicitor in Dublin specialising in criminal defence, Conway voluntarily spoke to detectives in connection with his memoir of life inside the IRA, called South Side Provisional.

The Guardian

Dotson, who returned to Hurlock, Md., around the time Dennehy was last seen, voluntarily spoke with the police in Dorchester County, Md., last Thursday.

The New York Times - Sports

Prosecutors say Ms. Lowery, 26, who has pleaded not guilty, voluntarily spoke with the police after calling them to complain about reporters gathering outside her Brooklyn building.

The New York Times

Marquez repeatedly waived his right to an attorney and voluntarily spoke with federal agents, who are trying to determine the shooters' connections to larger terror networks.

Los Angeles Times

Steve: Remember the guy who used a rooster as a gun and voluntarily spoke like a robot for most of the original film?

Huffington Post

"Oh, my God, what are we going to do?" Since Valenzuela, a father of two, arrived at the hospital, "he has not voluntarily spoken or moved," said Garo Mardirossian, the attorney the family hired.

Los Angeles Times

Mauinow.com reported he recently made a post to their Facebook page, in which he allegedly said he voluntarily spoke with police and has been cautioned about discussing the case.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "voluntarily speaking" to emphasize that a statement or action is made freely and without any external pressure or obligation. This can add clarity and weight to your writing, especially in legal or ethical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "voluntarily speaking" when simply indicating someone is speaking. It should only be used when the voluntary nature of the speech is significant to the context. Otherwise, simpler alternatives like "speaking" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "voluntarily speaking" typically functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which the action is performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights that the act of speaking is done willingly and without coercion.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "voluntarily speaking" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that emphasizes the willingness and lack of coercion in someone's speech. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is considered correct and usable in written English. While its frequency is uncommon, it finds its primary use in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. When employing this phrase, it's important to ensure that the voluntary nature of the speech is a relevant and significant aspect of the message you're conveying. Be mindful to avoid redundancy by not using it when simply indicating someone is speaking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

speaking willingly

Emphasizes the willingness of the speaker.

speaking of one's own accord

Highlights the self-initiated nature of the speech.

speaking without coercion

Focuses on the absence of external pressure.

freely expressing oneself

Broadens the concept to general expression, not just speech.

volunteering information

Highlights the act of providing information without being asked.

offering one's thoughts freely

Emphasizes the unconstrained nature of sharing thoughts.

giving testimony willingly

Specifically applies to formal contexts like legal proceedings.

providing unsolicited comments

Suggests the comments were not requested.

sharing insights voluntarily

Focuses on the sharing of insights rather than general speech.

spontaneously speaking

Highlights the immediacy and lack of premeditation.

FAQs

How can I use "voluntarily speaking" in a sentence?

You can use "voluntarily speaking" to emphasize that someone is offering information or making a statement of their own free will. For example, "Voluntarily speaking, I believe that everyone should have access to education".

What are some alternatives to "voluntarily speaking"?

You can use alternatives like "speaking willingly", "speaking of one's own accord", or "freely expressing oneself" depending on the context.

Is "voluntarily speaking" formal or informal?

"Voluntarily speaking" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both formal and informal contexts where the voluntary nature of the speech is relevant. However, simpler alternatives might be preferable in very informal settings.

What does it mean when someone is "voluntarily speaking"?

When someone is "voluntarily speaking", it means they are choosing to communicate or provide information without being forced or compelled to do so. It implies that their words are offered freely and willingly.