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.

Kavanagh, 78, is a New Englander by birth and Californian by choice.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

Some marry by choice to send money back to their families or to plot an eventual escape.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

Nada Reda Abu Sari, 82, however, has not stayed by choice.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

People forget about past follies, either by choice and/or because they’re distracted by the next shiny thing.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 6, 2026

Mama had left him by choice, Baba had left him by force, but this had always been home.

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray