voluntary

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.

“Voluntary” is pronounced VOL-uhn-tree (/ˈvɑ.lənˌt(ɛ)ɹi/ in IPA).

Here is “voluntary” used in a sentence: “Attendance at the workshop is voluntary.”

Words with a similar meaning to “voluntary” include discretionary, optional, volitional, willful and intentional.

The opposite of “voluntary” — its antonyms — are antonym(s) of, compulsory, accidental, obligatory and paid.

“Voluntary” is an adjective.

The word “voluntary” comes from Latin. From Latin voluntarius, "willing," from voluntas, "will" or "wish.".

“Voluntary” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

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.

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.

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.

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.