discretionary

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.

The bottom two rungs in the E-shaped economy have significantly cut their discretionary spending — with some even skipping meals, as McDonald’s highlighted in its latest earnings report.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

Of the total, approximately $1.1tn would be in discretionary spending for the Pentagon, the highest on record.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

If the war in Iran drags on, then the resulting effect on transportation costs could crimp consumer demand for discretionary goods like chocolate.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

The bottom line shows total nondefense discretionary spending falling from $733.5 billion in fiscal year 2026 to a request for $660.1 billion for fiscal year 2027.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

Most prosecutors’ offices lack any manual or guidebook advising prosecutors how to make discretionary decisions.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander