What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
volitional
Example
She made a volitional effort to wake up early every day. [volitional: adjective]
Example
His volitional behavior helped him achieve his goals. [volitional: noun]
deliberate
Example
She made a deliberate choice to pursue a career in medicine. [deliberate: adjective]
Example
He deliberated for hours before making a final decision. [deliberated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deliberate is more commonly used than volitional in everyday language, especially in formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between volitional and deliberate?
Deliberate is more formal than volitional, and is often used in professional or academic settings to describe intentional and purposeful actions.