Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for voluntary. Search instead for voluntaryis.
Definitions

voluntary

[vol-uhn-ter-ee] / ˈvɒl ənˌtɛr i /
ADJECTIVE
willing
Synonyms
STRONGEST
spontaneous
STRONG
chosen free independent volunteer
WEAK
autonomous deliberate designful discretional elected free-willed freely gratuitous honorary intended intentional opted optional unasked unbidden uncompelled unconstrained unforced unpaid unprescribed volitional willed willful wished witting
Antonyms
WEAK
forced involuntary obligatory unwilling

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.

One circulating clip shows Erin Collins, the IRS’s top ombudsman, talking about voluntary compliance in a congressional hearing.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

They restrict transactions that undermine the conditions necessary for freedom, even when those transactions could be described as voluntary.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

In December, the German parliament voted to introduce voluntary military service, meaning that from January all 18-year-olds would be sent a questionnaire asking if they were interested in joining the armed forces.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

A sixth and final draft, seen by AFP, greenlights member states -- either unilaterally or as "voluntary multinational naval partnerships" -- to use "all defensive means necessary and commensurate with the circumstances."

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

By the early afternoon Mayor Nagin and Governor Blanco had called for a voluntary evacuation of the city.

From "Zeitoun" by Dave Eggers