Optional
/ˈɒpʃənəl/
Definitions
Available to be chosen but not compulsory.
/ˈɒpʃənəl/
Available to be chosen but not required.
Attendance at the workshop is optional.
💡 Simply: It's like when you're ordering pizza and you can add extra toppings if you *want* to, but it's okay if you don't. Optional means you get to choose if you do it or not!
👶 For kids: Something is optional when you can choose to do it or not. Like, wearing a hat on a sunny day is optional.
More Examples
The extra features are optional and come at an additional cost.
If you don't want to take the exam, it is optional.
How It's Used
"The course has several optional modules."
"Overtime pay is optional based on company policy."
"Travel insurance is optional."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Middle French optionnel, from Latin optio ('choice').
The word 'optional' has been in use since the 17th century, evolving from the Latin root related to choice.
Memory tip
Think of 'option' – you have a choice! It's NOT a must-do.
Word Origin
"choice, free choice"