Is voluntary formal or informal?

Yes, it is common in academic and formal writing.

What's the difference between voluntary and compulsory?

It describes choice; 'compulsory' is its opposite.

How do I use voluntary in a sentence?

Use it before a noun or after a verb like 'is' or 'become'.

Is voluntary used in business writing?

It appears in academic texts and official policy contexts often.

← Dictionary

voluntary

/ˈvɒl.ən.tɛr.i/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Done by one's own choice, not required or forced; given freely.

She does voluntary work on weekends.
He made a voluntary statement to the police.
They offer voluntary leave for community service.

Adinary Nuance

Near-neighbors: 'voluntary' implies free choice, while 'optional' suggests you may choose without praise; 'willing' focuses on readiness. Use 'willing' for attitude and 'optional' when something is not required.

In other languages

Spanish: Voluntario
Japanese: 自発的（じはつてき）
Korean: 자발적
Vietnamese: Tự nguyện
Chinese: 自愿的

Common phrases

voluntary workmake a voluntary offertake voluntary leave

Synonyms

free unforced willing discretionary optional

Frequently asked questions

Is voluntary formal or informal?: Yes, it is common in academic and formal writing.
What's the difference between voluntary and compulsory?: It describes choice; 'compulsory' is its opposite.
How do I use voluntary in a sentence?: Use it before a noun or after a verb like 'is' or 'become'.
Is voluntary used in business writing?: It appears in academic texts and official policy contexts often.