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Definitions

by choice

ADVERB
preferably
Synonyms
STRONG
rather
WEAK
alternatively first in preference willingly
ADVERB
rather
Synonyms
STRONGEST
sooner willingly
WEAK
alternately alternatively as a matter of choice by preference first in lieu of in preference just as soon more readily more willingly much sooner
Antonyms
WEAK
extremely insignificantly little violently
ADVERB
voluntarily
Synonyms
STRONGEST
deliberately freely intentionally spontaneously willingly
WEAK
at one's discretion by preference of one's own accord on one's own on one's own initiative optionally with all one's heart without being asked without prompting
Antonyms
STRONGEST
unintentionally
WEAK
forced involuntarily obligatory

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I have lived here by choice for more than 30 years.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 7, 2026

The feeling was familiar among her Los Angeles peers, many of whom had spent their 20s and 30s prioritizing other ambitions while delaying, whether by choice or economic necessity, conventional markers of adulthood.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2026

Today, I scroll through my phone contacts of friends and see a growing number of solo agers — many by choice.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 27, 2026

"I just got an email and apparently I just got retired, not by choice but because I am no longer allowed to compete," Van Leuven said in a video posted on Instagram.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

I was definitely an outsider, not a geek but a loner by choice.

From "Burning Blue" by Paul Griffin

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