Definitions
- Referring to something that is not required or necessary. - Talking about a choice or decision that is left up to the individual. - Describing an item or feature that can be added or removed without affecting the basic function or purpose.
- Referring to something that is done by choice or free will. - Talking about an action or behavior that is not required or compelled. - Describing an organization or group that is made up of individuals who have chosen to participate.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something that is not mandatory or required.
- 2Both words involve a degree of choice or decision-making.
- 3Both words can be used to describe actions or behaviors that are not compelled or forced.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Optional is more commonly used to describe things like features, items, or choices, while voluntary is more commonly used to describe actions, behaviors, or participation in groups or organizations.
- 2Connotation: Optional has a neutral connotation, while voluntary has a positive connotation, implying a sense of altruism or willingness to help.
- 3Degree of choice: Optional implies a choice between two or more options, while voluntary implies a choice to participate or not participate at all.
- 4Focus: Optional emphasizes the availability of a choice, while voluntary emphasizes the individual's decision to participate or not.
- 5Formality: Optional is more commonly used in everyday language, while voluntary is more formal and often used in legal or official contexts.
Remember this!
Optional and voluntary are synonyms that describe something that is not mandatory or required. However, optional is more commonly used to describe choices or features, while voluntary is more commonly used to describe actions or participation in groups. Additionally, optional has a neutral connotation, while voluntary has a positive connotation, implying a sense of willingness or altruism.
