voluntarily

The word “voluntarily” means done by choice, without being forced or paid to do it. In plain terms, done of your own free will, not because you had to.

“Voluntarily” is pronounced vo-luhn-TEH-rih-lee (/ˌvɑlənˈtɛɹɪli/ in IPA).

Here is “voluntarily” used in a sentence: “She voluntarily gave up her seat on the crowded train.”

The opposite of “voluntarily” — its antonyms — are compulsorily, involuntarily, accidentally, unintentionally and unknowingly.

“Voluntarily” is an adverb.

“Voluntarily” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

Voluntarily describes an action done by choice, without being forced or paid to do it, while involuntarily describes an action done without control or intention, such as a reflex. A person who voluntarily resigns chooses to leave, whereas someone involuntarily dismissed does not choose the outcome.

Voluntarily emphasizes that an action was not required or compelled, while willingly emphasizes eagerness or lack of reluctance in doing it. Someone can act voluntarily without necessarily being enthusiastic, whereas willingly implies a more positive attitude toward the task.

Yes, voluntarily is common in legal and formal writing to describe actions taken by free choice rather than under compulsion, such as a voluntarily signed agreement or voluntarily disclosed information. This precise sense makes it useful for contracts, statements, and official reports.