voluntary
10 synonyms and 6 antonyms for voluntary, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Done by choice, not because of an obligation or force.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use voluntary
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin voluntarius, "willing," from voluntas, "will" or "wish."
Full origin of voluntary →Frequently asked questions
What does “voluntary” mean?
The word “voluntary” means done by choice, not because of an obligation or force. In plain terms, something you choose to do, freely, and often without pay.
How do you pronounce “voluntary”?
“Voluntary” is pronounced VOL-uhn-tree (/ˈvɑ.lənˌt(ɛ)ɹi/ in IPA).
How do you use “voluntary” in a sentence?
Here is “voluntary” used in a sentence: “Attendance at the workshop is voluntary.”
What is another word for “voluntary”?
Words with a similar meaning to “voluntary” include discretionary, optional, volitional, willful and intentional.
What is the opposite of “voluntary”?
The opposite of “voluntary” — its antonyms — are antonym(s) of, compulsory, accidental, obligatory and paid.
What part of speech is “voluntary”?
“Voluntary” is an adjective.
Where does the word “voluntary” come from?
The word “voluntary” comes from Latin. From Latin voluntarius, "willing," from voluntas, "will" or "wish.".
Is “voluntary” a common word?
“Voluntary” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
What is the difference between voluntary and involuntary?
Voluntary describes something done by choice, not because of obligation or force. Involuntary is its direct opposite: done without choice, or outside conscious control, as with involuntary muscle movements. A voluntary statement is freely given; an involuntary reaction simply happens.
What is the difference between voluntary and mandatory?
A voluntary activity is one you choose to do and are free to decline. A mandatory activity is required by a rule, law, or authority, so refusing carries consequences. For example, voluntary training is optional, while mandatory training must be completed.
Does voluntary always mean unpaid?
No. The core meaning of voluntary is done by choice rather than out of obligation, which says nothing about payment. In phrases such as "voluntary work" or the "voluntary sector," however, it specifically means unpaid work done for a good cause, so context determines which sense applies.
What is the difference between voluntary and volunteer?
Voluntary is an adjective meaning done by choice or unpaid, as in "voluntary work." Volunteer is a noun for a person who offers to do something freely, and a verb meaning to offer freely. Volunteer can also sit before a noun, as in "volunteer firefighter," where it describes the person rather than the activity.