WordGarden.iooptionally
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɒpʃənəli/
US
- /ˈɑpʃənəli/Canadaadverb
Meanings
Adverb
if desired or chosen rather than required
Beyond the definition
"Optionally" means that something can be added, done, or chosen, but it is not necessary. Think of it like choosing toppings for your ice cream: sprinkles are optional, so you can add them if you want, but the ice cream is still good without them. The word shows choice and flexibility. A software update might be installed optionally, meaning you do not have to install it right away. A form might also ask you to add your phone number optionally, which means you can leave it blank if you prefer. The main idea is simple: the extra thing is allowed, but not required.
The word "optionally" indicates that something is permitted or available as a choice, but it's not mandatory or required. It introduces a degree of flexibility and allows for different approaches depending on preference or circumstance.
Imagine you're building with LEGOs. The instructions might say, "Attach the red brick optionally." This means you can use the red brick if you like how it looks, but the structure will still stand perfectly fine without it. It's a nice-to-have, not a need-to-have.
"Optionally" is often used in technical contexts. Software features are frequently described this way when they can be enabled or skipped by the user. For example: "You can optionally enable two-factor authentication for added security." It also appears in instructions and guidelines where there is room for personal choice. A recipe might say, "Optionally, garnish with parsley," meaning the dish is complete even without it.
Unlike words like "required" or "mandatory," which leave no room for choice, "optionally" shows that something is extra rather than essential. It is common in instructions, software settings, forms, recipes, and many everyday situations where one step is available but not forced. So, when you see "optionally," think of it as an open door: you may go through it, but you do not have to.
Examples
- 1
Cooking
You can optionally add a little honey if the sauce tastes too sharp.
- 2
Contact details
The form asks for your email address and optionally your phone number.
- 3
App setup
Install the app, then optionally sign in to sync your settings.
- 4
Purchase plan
The plan includes basic support and, optionally, an extended warranty.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Number pattern
In this pattern, a country code is optionally followed by a space and the phone number.
- Patternoptionally followed by + part
may have that part after it
See also
Similar
- if desired
- by choice
- voluntarily
Shades of meaning
- at your discretion
- as needed
- electively
Contrast
- mandatorily
- necessarily
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- optionally include
- can optionally
- optionally available
- optionally specify
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- optionallyadverb