The Opposite(Antonym) of “mandatory”
The antonym of mandatory is optional, voluntary, and discretionary. The antonyms optional, voluntary, and discretionary convey a sense of choice or freedom. It implies that something is not required or necessary.
Explore all Antonyms of “mandatory”
Definitions and Examples of optional, voluntary, discretionary
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Available to be chosen but not obligatory.
Example
The final exam was optional, but most students chose to take it.
Done, given, or acting of one's own free will; not forced or compelled.
Example
She decided to join the charity organization on a voluntary basis.
Available for use at the discretion of the user or decision-maker.
Example
The company offered its employees a discretionary bonus based on their performance.
Key Differences: optional vs voluntary vs discretionary
- 1Optional implies that something is available to be chosen but not required.
- 2Voluntary implies that something is done willingly or by choice, without being forced.
- 3Discretionary implies that something is available for use at the discretion of the user or decision-maker.
Effective Usage of optional, voluntary, discretionary
- 1Clarify Instructions: Use mandatory and optional to distinguish between required and non-required tasks.
- 2Encourage Participation: Use voluntary to encourage people to participate in activities without pressure.
- 3Provide Flexibility: Use discretionary to provide flexibility in decision-making or resource allocation.
Remember this!
The antonyms have distinct nuances: Optional implies choice, voluntary implies willingness, and discretionary implies availability for use at the discretion of the user or decision-maker. Use these words to clarify instructions, encourage participation, and provide flexibility in decision-making or resource allocation.
