optional

Everyday

Something you can choose to do or have, but you do not have to. tree →

In the lessons

In school, optional homework or optional questions are your choice; compulsory ones are not. In maths or tests «optional» extension tasks give extra challenge. In everyday life and shopping, extras like sauce or gift wrapping may be optional and sometimes cost more.

Examples

• The extra worksheet is optional. tree →
• Uniform is compulsory, but the hat is optional. tree →
• Tipping is optional in some countries. tree →
• Sprinkles are optional — do you want them? tree →
• The trip is optional, but most children are going. tree →
• Question 5 is optional for those who finish early. tree →

Note

Opposite: compulsory or required (mandatory, formal). Noun: option. «Optional» does not mean free — an optional extra may still cost money.